Dragon Puffer (Pao palembangensis)
Fish in the family Tetraodontidae. Hard care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific namePao palembangensis
FamilyTetraodontidae
Also known asHumpback Puffer, Palembang Puffer
Care levelHard
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentAggressive
DietCarnivore
Adult size8 in
Minimum tank size45 gallons
Water parametersTemp 75-82°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 4-15 dGH
Appearance
Mottled brown-and-cream body with raised ridges over the eyes giving a dragon-like profile, a humped back, and a beak of fused teeth; excellent camouflage.
Difficulty and care for the Dragon Puffer
Hard
Origin and habitat
Southeast Asia
Keeper notes
A sedentary ambush puffer that lies in wait and engulfs fish and shrimp; aggressive and territorial, best kept alone. Fully freshwater unlike many puffers. Beak needs wearing down with hard-shelled prey.
Log Dragon Puffer in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Dragon Puffer alongside everything else in your reef.
