Cross River Puffer

Cross River Puffer (Tetraodon pustulatus)

The Cross River Puffer is one of the rarest and most fascinating freshwater puffers in the world, highly prized by advanced aquarists for its impressive size, intelligence, and vibrant personality. Native to the Cross River Basin in West Africa, this powerful species is known for its striking appearance and remarkable behavior. With its golden body, dark patterning, and curious eyes, the Cross River Puffer commands attention in any large aquarium.

As one of the largest freshwater puffers, it can grow up to 20 inches (50 cm), requiring a spacious and well-maintained aquarium of at least 300 gallons. These fish prefer warm tropical water between 77–82°F (25–28°C) and need strong filtration, stable water parameters, and ample open swimming space. Like most puffers, they are highly intelligent, interactive with their keepers, and capable of recognizing familiar faces.

Feeding the Cross River Puffer requires a varied diet of hard-shelled foods such as snails, clams, mussels, crab legs, and shrimp to help wear down their constantly growing teeth. They may also accept frozen or meaty foods like fish fillets and krill. Because they are highly territorial and can be aggressive, this species is best kept alone or in a carefully planned single-species setup.

Their rarity, beauty, and personality make the Cross River Puffer one of the most rewarding — yet challenging — species to keep. For more biological and distribution information, you can refer to FishBase

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How big does the Cross River Puffer get?
It can reach up to 20 inches (50 cm) in captivity.

2. What size tank is required?
A minimum of 300 gallons is needed, with strong filtration and stable water quality.

3. What do Cross River Puffers eat?
They eat snails, mussels, clams, shrimp, and other meaty foods.

4. Can they live with other fish?
No, they are highly territorial and best kept alone.

5. How long do they live?
With proper care, they can live 10–15 years or more.