Pignose Puffer (Pao suvattii)

A highly adapted ambush predator found in the fast-flowing waters of the middle Mekong, the Pignose or Arrowhead Puffer spends most of its time buried in sandy or silty substrate in the wild. Its upward facing mouth and excellent vision allow it to lie in wait for other fish or invertebrates to pass overhead, striking almost instantaneously to take a bite of the unprotected underbelly with their sharp beaks. In the aquarium they are interesting if not particularly active fish, best kept alone in a species tank. Any tankmates are generally at risk of being eaten. The addition of some rocks and hiding places along with moderate to strong current and aeration will help keep them more active and engaged in the aquarium setting. Like most freshwater puffers, hard-shelled prey items like snails, clams, crawfish and similar are important additions to their diet to ensure their beak-like teeth don’t overgrow.