Dwarf Yellow Puffer

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Carinotetraodon travancoricus
• Common Name: Dwarf Yellow Puffer, Pea Puffer, Malabar Puffer
• Adult Size: 1–1.5 inches (2.5–3.8 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 4–5 years with proper care
• Habitat: Freshwater streams and rivers in the Western Ghats of India, often densely vegetated with slow-moving water

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons for a single puffer; 10–20 gallons for a small group (3–5 puffers)
• Ideal Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH (soft to moderately hard)
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial, especially males—best in species-only tanks or with caution in community setups

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes
  • Prefers meaty foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, snails (to help wear down teeth), and insect larvae
  • May accept frozen or live foods more readily than dried; some individuals can be picky eaters

Appearance

• Coloration: Bright yellow to greenish body with dark black spots or blotches
• Size: Very small and rounded body shape, giving it a "pea-like" appearance
• Eyes: Large, expressive eyes that move independently

Distinctive Features

• Extremely small size for a puffer species
• Freshwater species—does not require brackish conditions, unlike many other puffers
• Independent eye movement and intelligent, curious behavior
• Males develop a darker line on their belly and may become more brightly colored when mature
• Sharp beak-like teeth that can overgrow if not fed shelled foods like snails