Sumatran Red Eye Puffer (Carinotetraodon irrubesco) is a small freshwater puffer from Sumatra and Borneo — closely related to the Indian Dwarf Pea Puffer but with its own distinctive appearance. The vivid red to orange-red iris gives this species its common name, and the reddish body coloration and bold dark spotting create a striking combination on a fish barely 2 inches long.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms is the ideal primary staple — nano puffers are enthusiastic bloodworm hunters. Feed 2–3 times daily in small amounts. For dental health, provide live or frozen small snails (bladder snails, ramshorn snails) and small shrimp with shells several times per week. Snail availability is essential — see the snail colony tip below.
Native to rivers and streams of Sumatra and Borneo — soft, slightly acidic blackwater and clearwater environments. More commonly found in dense aquatic vegetation and areas with leaf litter. Closely related to the Pea Puffer but representing the Southeast Asian branch of the Carinotetraodon genus.
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. Like the Pea Puffer, this species is an active snail hunter and benefits greatly from a dedicated snail colony supply. Can be nippy toward tankmates — best in a species setup or with fast, robust companions.
Keep with more females than males — males are territorial with each other. A heavily planted aquarium provides enrichment and reduces territorial conflict.
| Difficulty | Easy — Moderate |
| Temperament | Can be aggressive — species or careful community |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.0 inches (5 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 3 minimum — more females than males |
| Ideal Temp | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 3–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–8 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms |
| Treat / Supplement | Live/frozen snails; small shrimp with shells (dental essential) |
| Origin | Sumatra and Borneo, Indonesia |
| Notes | Vivid red iris — distinctive eye color. Southeast Asian Carinotetraodon. Snail hunter — snail colony essential. Species setup preferred. |
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