Fahaka Pufferfish - Tetraodon lineatus
The Fahaka Pufferfish is a fascinating and powerful freshwater predator known for its vivid striped pattern and highly intelligent behavior. Native to African river systems, this bold species can grow up to 18 inches and demands a dedicated, well-maintained tank with ample space and the right diet.
Fahaka puffers are interactive and often recognize their owners, but they are not community-safe—this fish is best kept solo due to its aggressive and territorial nature. With the proper care, however, it becomes a truly rewarding aquatic companion.
⚡ Key Features:
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Striking yellow and brown striped body
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Large, powerful beak used for crushing shells
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Highly intelligent and interactive – learns feeding routines
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Long lifespan (up to 10+ years with proper care)
?️ Care Guidelines:
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Minimum Tank Size: 100–125 gallons (for adults)
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Water Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
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pH Range: 7.0–7.8
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Diet: Carnivorous – requires shelled foods (crabs, snails, clams) to wear down teeth
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Behavior: Highly territorial; must be kept alone or in very carefully controlled setups
⚠️ Important Notes:
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Solo Species – will attack or kill tankmates
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Needs regular dental care (or crunchy diet) to prevent overgrown teeth
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Extremely messy eater – strong filtration and frequent maintenance required
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Very responsive to human presence; can even learn feeding cues
Looking for a freshwater predator with brains, beauty, and boldness? The Fahaka Pufferfish is an expert-level centerpiece fish for aquarists ready for a challenge and a companion like no other.
The Fahaka Puffer is one the few full freshwater puffers in the fish keeping hobby.
They tend to be super aggressive care needs to taken when selecting tankmates.
Also known as the Nile Puffer or Band Puffer.
They can grow well over a foot in size.
Current size is just around 0.75" - 1.25” or so.
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Super fast delivery
I live in Omaha Nebraska, and I order my Fahaka puffer on Monday morning. It got to me in less than 24 hours. I was so nervous to order it, didn’t know how it would turn out. He small witch I knew it would be but he is swimming happily in his new home. Thank you guy! I will definitely be doing much more business with you guys.
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Great
Excellent
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Health of fish
Extremely sunk in stomach not leaving 1 star in hopes he is just starved and will get better
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Healthy Fahaka
I ordered my fish on a Monday afternoon and my fish was delivered on the next morning. The baby fish was a bit shy at first but perked right up in a few minutes. The Fahaka soon started eating and nipping at tankmates. I could not be happier with this purchase.
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Fahaka Puffer
I received my puffer and it is great it’s eating just fine and had no issue. I would recommend buying fish pet zone to anyone. Thank you.
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healthy puffer
Puffer was a little smaller than expected, but arrived healthy and happy. After about 4 hours of settling in under a plant, the little fahaka started exploring his new tank. After its third trip around the tank noticed a snail and went to town, after about three days the tank is snail free. Even though he's small, already has beautiful coloration and full of personality. Thank you petzone! After a year of trying to acquire this fish througha couple lfs and being let down, you guys safely shipped a beautiful fish and have earned a new very satisfied customer. I can't wait to make the drive from inland empire to see the store in person.
