This is the guide that changed everything. Through research, field observation, and thousands of shared experiences, this care sheet redefined what responsible keeping means. It set the benchmark for clarity, accuracy, and compassion, becoming the trusted reference for aquarists around the world.

Pea Puffers have an uncanny way of captivating us. They’re tiny, expressive, and seem to have an undying curiosity for the world around them. This curiosity comes from the river systems they evolved in and the nature of their food in the wild. The slightest flicker in the leaf litter or disturbance in the silt might betray the location of their next meal, so these fish are always watching. One of the best pieces of advice I received when I got my first dog was, “A bored puppy

In the wild, many freshwater pufferfish (species like Pao and Tetraodon) spend much of their time hunting crustaceans. These puffer beaks are made for crushing through their hardened carapaces, giving them access to prey that most other fish can’t touch. Crabs and crayfish aren’t just snacks; they’re full of minerals, protein, and the hard texture that keeps those teeth in check. When we keep puffers in captivity, the same foods can do wonders if they’re offered properly. Thi