Tetraodon murius, the Murius puffer, is a unique freshwater puffer fish known for its vibrant colors and intriguing behavior, ideal for specialized aquariums.

🐠 Tetraodon murius – Product Description

The Tetraodon murius, commonly called the Murius puffer, is a captivating freshwater puffer species native to parts of Southeast Asia. Known for its distinctive shape, textured skin, and vibrant coloration, this puffer is a fascinating addition to any specialized aquarium. Growing up to 8–10 inches (20–25 cm), Tetraodon murius offers both visual appeal and engaging behaviors. Due to their specialized care requirements and semi-aggressive temperament, they are best suited for experienced aquarists who can provide the right environment and diet.

🌊 Water Conditions

• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH Range: 7.0 – 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)

• Hardness: 10–20 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 50 gallons for a single adult, larger for multiple or community setups

• Filtration: Strong filtration recommended to maintain pristine water quality due to high bioload

• Water Changes: Regular water changes (20–30% weekly) essential to maintain stability

🍽️ Feeding Habits

• Diet: Carnivorous and highly specialized

  • Requires hard-shelled foods like snails, crustaceans, and shell-on shrimp to wear down their continuously growing teeth

  • Accepts frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, krill, and earthworms

  • May eat some prepared foods designed for carnivorous fish but needs variety

• Feeding Frequency: Feed once daily or every other day to prevent overfeeding and maintain health

• Feeding Tips: Use feeding tongs or drop food near the bottom; watch for signs of overgrown teeth which may need manual intervention

🐡 Tank Mates

• Compatible Tank Mates:

  • Larger, robust, and non-aggressive fish able to coexist without stress

  • Species like larger gouramis, robust catfish, or other similarly sized puffers with caution

• Avoid:

  • Small or slow-moving fish that may be seen as prey

  • Aggressive or fin-nipping species that stress the puffer

  • Overcrowding which leads to stress and aggression

🛠️ Care and Behavior

• Temperament:

  • Semi-aggressive and territorial, especially with conspecifics or similar species

  • Intelligent and curious but can be shy or stressed if housed with incompatible tank mates

• Behavior:

  • Known for its inflation defense mechanism when threatened

  • Requires regular mental stimulation and enrichment in the tank

• Tank Maintenance:

  • Maintain stable water parameters and clean tank environment

  • Monitor for signs of disease or stress; puffers are sensitive to poor water quality

• Health:

  • Prone to issues with teeth overgrowth if diet lacks hard foods

  • Regular observation and possible dental care needed to keep teeth trimmed

📌 Summary

The Tetraodon murius is a stunning and unique freshwater puffer species perfect for experienced aquarists seeking a captivating centerpiece fish. Its vibrant appearance, intriguing behaviors, and specific care needs make it both challenging and rewarding to keep. Providing ample space, pristine water conditions, and a varied diet rich in hard-shelled foods will ensure the health and happiness of this fascinating puffer fish. Ideal for species-specific or carefully planned community tanks, the Murius puffer offers an unforgettable aquatic experience.