Bronze puffer - Xenopterus naritus

Scientific name: Xenopterus naritus

Common name: Bronze puffer

Family: Tetraodontidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 24 - 29 cm (9.45 - 11.42 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.9 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 5 - 24°N (89.29 - 428.57ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 27 °C (75.2 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South Asia

Temperament to its own species: aggressive/territorial

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive/territorial

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and Feeding

The Bronze Puffer (Xenopterus naritus) is a strict carnivore that requires a diet of live or frozen foods. They will eagerly consume shrimp, cockles, mussels, and pieces of fish. To maintain proper dental health, it is crucial to provide them with a steady supply of snails, as their constantly growing teeth need to be worn down through natural foraging.

Origin and Natural Habitat

Native to Southeast Asia, Xenopterus naritus is found in the coastal and estuarine regions of China, Myanmar, Thailand, and Indonesia. They inhabit brackish and freshwater environments, often preferring slow-moving rivers and tributaries with dense vegetation and submerged structures.

Sexing

There are no externally visible differences between males and females, making it difficult to determine their sex without close examination or dissection.

Breeding

Breeding Xenopterus naritus in captivity is extremely challenging due to their aggressive and territorial nature. They do not tolerate conspecifics or other fish in close proximity, making natural spawning virtually impossible in a home aquarium.

Lifespan

With proper care, Xenopterus naritus can live for over 10 years. Maintaining high water quality, a proper diet, and a spacious environment are key factors in ensuring their longevity.

Tank Requirements and Behavior

Bronze Puffers are highly aggressive and should be housed alone in a species-specific aquarium. They require a spacious tank - ideally 200 liters (50 gallons) or more - to accommodate their large adult size of up to 11 inches. Due to their messy eating habits and high waste production, an efficient filtration system is essential. Regular water changes are necessary to maintain stable water conditions and prevent health issues.

Suitable Tank Setup

To replicate their natural habitat, the aquarium should include plenty of hiding spots such as driftwood, caves, and densely planted areas. A moderate water flow will mimic their native riverine environments. Substrate choice can be sand or fine gravel, as they may occasionally sift through it while hunting for food.

Short Description

The Bronze Puffer (Xenopterus naritus) is a striking yet highly aggressive fish that requires dedicated care. Due to their territorial nature, they should be kept alone in a well-maintained tank with excellent filtration. Their diet consists exclusively of meaty foods, and they must be provided with snails to prevent overgrown teeth. While challenging to keep, they can be a rewarding species for experienced aquarists willing to meet their unique needs.