Dragon Puffer
Dragon Puffer
Dragon Puffer (Pao palembangensis) is one of the most spectacular and rarely available freshwater puffers — a large, powerful fish with a dramatic pattern of dark reticulation and spots on a golden to olive background, combined with the formidable presence of a large puffer with attitude. The Dragon name reflects both the imposing appearance and the temperament. From the rivers of Sumatra.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Clams on the Half Shell and Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms are the primary staples. Whole mussels, prawns, and large snails are essential for dental wear — feed hard-shelled foods several times per week. Large puffers have powerful beaks and should always be fed with tongs or a feeding stick — never by hand. Feed 2–3 times per week; puffers have slow metabolisms and do not need daily feeding.
Native to the rivers of Sumatra — the Musi, Batanghari, and surrounding drainages in South Sumatra. Part of the genus Pao, formerly classified under Tetraodon. Rarely imported — a genuine collector fish for serious puffer enthusiasts.
All puffer fish have fused, beak-like teeth that grow continuously throughout their lives. Hard foods — snails, shellfish, and crustaceans with intact shells — are essential for wearing down the teeth. A puffer fed only soft foods will eventually develop overgrown teeth that prevent eating, a condition requiring veterinary intervention. Snails and hard-shelled foods are dental care, not just food. The Dragon Puffer is a powerful fish that should always be fed with tongs. Hard shellfish are essential for dental health. This species is not shy about expressing displeasure.
Keep singly in a species tank. The rarity and spectacular appearance of this fish make it a centerpiece specimen for dedicated puffer keepers.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Temperament | Aggressive — species tank only |
| Typical Adult Size | 10.0 inches (25 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | Singly — species tank |
| Ideal Temp | 74–82°F (23–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 5–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 2–8 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Clams on the Half Shell; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms |
| Treat / Supplement | Whole mussels; prawns; large snails (dental essential) |
| Origin | Rivers of Sumatra, Indonesia — Musi and Batanghari drainages |
| Notes | Genus Pao — formerly Tetraodon. Dark reticulation and spots on golden body. Rarely imported — collector fish. Powerful — always feed with tongs. Species only. |
