Fahaka Puffer (Tetraodon lineatus) - Live Fish

Fahaka Puffer (Tetraodon lineatus)

The bold, intelligent centerpiece fish with a personality as big as its appetite!

The Fahaka Puffer, also known as the Nile Puffer or Striped Puffer, is a large, freshwater pufferfish with striking horizontal stripes and a ton of character. Known for their intelligence, interactive nature, and powerful beak-like teeth, these puffers are not for beginners — but they’re a favorite among experienced aquarists who want a truly unique pet!

🔍 Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Tetraodon lineatus

• Common Names: Fahaka Puffer, Nile Puffer, Striped Puffer

• Origin: Nile River Basin and other parts of East and West Africa

• Size: Up to 18 inches in adulthood

• Temperament: Aggressive/territorial – should be kept alone or in a very large species-specific setup

• Lifespan: 10+ years with proper care

• Care Level: Advanced

🏡 Ideal Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 100–125 gallons (adults)

• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)

• pH Range: 7.0–8.0

• Water Hardness: Moderate

• Tank Setup Tips:

  • Fine sand substrate (they love to dig!)

  • Plenty of space to swim and explore

  • Strong filtration — Fahakas are messy eaters

  • Secure lid — they can jump!

  • Best kept alone due to aggression toward tank mates

🍽️ Diet

Fahaka Puffers are voracious carnivores with powerful jaws that must be exercised regularly to prevent tooth overgrowth.
Feed a varied diet of hard-shelled foods like:

• Snails

• Crayfish

• Mussels

• Clams

• Crabs

• Occasionally: earthworms, shrimp, frozen seafood

🦷 Teeth trimming may be required if not provided with crunchy, shelled food.

🐣 Breeding

• Rare in home aquariums

• No reliable breeding in captivity

• Sexing is difficult

• Not a community breeder — extremely territorial

🌟 Fun Facts

• Highly intelligent — many owners say their Fahaka recognizes them!

• Can inflate with water or air when threatened

• Displays distinct body language when curious, hunting, or stressed

• Often compared to aquatic dogs for their interactive behavior

⚠️ Important Note

Due to their aggression and dietary needs, Fahaka Puffers are not community fish. They require a dedicated tank, experienced care, and regular enrichment.

🛒 Add a truly extraordinary freshwater predator to your aquarium — available now at Stillwater Aquaria!
Fahaka Puffers are showstoppers that thrive in the care of passionate aquarists who are up for the challenge.