Fahaka Pufferfish
Tetraodon lineatus
What you need to keep a Fahaka Pufferfish
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pH
7–8.5
Temperature
24–28 °C
Max size
43 cm
Min tank
500 L
Where to buy
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
The Fahaka Pufferfish, also called the Nile Pufferfish, is the largest and most aggressive purely freshwater pufferfish species commonly available in the hobby. Growing to 43 centimetres, this solitary predator from the rivers of Africa features beautiful striped patterning and expressive, almost human-like eyes. It possesses a powerful beak capable of crushing snail shells and even biting through aquarium equipment. It must be housed alone — it will attack and kill any tank mate without exception.
Key traits
Care guide
Keeping Fahaka Pufferfish healthy in a South African setup.
Tank setup
A minimum 500L aquarium suits Fahaka Pufferfish. Use robust décor and sight breaks so each fish can hold its own space.
Water parameters
Keep pH 7–8.5 and 24–28°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers; acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Carnivore. Feed small amounts it clears in a couple of minutes, and vary the diet.
Behaviour
Aggressive. Watch it at feeding time and at lights-out to see its real temperament in your tank.
Tankmates
Choose robust tankmates of similar size, and nothing small enough to be eaten. Add Fahaka Pufferfish last so territories reset.
Breeding
Fahaka Pufferfish is rarely bred in captivity; most SA hobbyists buy from shops and breeders.
Community photos
From hobbyists across SA.
Market intelligence
Price trends and buyer demand — data only FishHub tracks.
Price history — last 90 days
SA price range this month: R245–245 · Average: R245
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