
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Carinotetraodon irrubesco
A tiny freshwater puffer in which the male's dorsal and caudal fins turn red. Known only from a few systems in Sumatra and Borneo, it reaches about 4cm SL and is less aggressive than most red-eye puffers.
Carinotetraodon irrubesco is a tiny tetraodontid known only from the lower Banjuasin basin in southern Sumatra and the Sambas river in western Kalimantan. FishBase records a maximum of 4.4cm SL, 10-12 dorsal rays, 9-10 anal rays and a habitat pH of about 6.0. Males have red dorsal and caudal fins, lack a black blotch at the dorsal fin base and carry a red mid-ventral stripe, while females show interrupted black stripes below and five to seven bars on the caudal fin, so the sexes are easily told apart. Seriously Fish gives 20-28C, pH 6.0-7.5, 2-12 dGH and a 60 x 30cm base, and notes it is less aggressive than its congeners although males are territorial. At least one captive spawning is documented, with several hundred eggs deposited among plants and decor and the first fry hatching in 65 hours. The IUCN rates it Least Concern.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Red-tailed Red-eye Puffer lives 3-5 years.
The Red-tailed Red-eye Puffer grows to Up to 4.4cm SL.
The ideal temperature for the Red-tailed Red-eye Puffer is 20〜28℃.
Origin
Indonesia (Banjuasin basin in Sumatra and the Sambas river in Kalimantan)
Lifespan
3-5 years
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Carinotetraodon irrubesco Tan, 1999
Authority databases: FishBase
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Size
Up to 4.4cm SL
Temperature
20〜28℃
Small snails, shelled crustaceans, frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp
Seriously Fish suggests a 60 x 30cm base. Plenty of plants and driftwood to create refuges and break up sightlines will reduce territorial disputes between males.
Seriously Fish gives 20-28C, pH 6.0-7.5 and 2-12 dGH, and FishBase records a habitat pH of about 6.0. It is a true freshwater fish and needs no salt. Conditions shift quickly in a small tank, so change water often.
A species tank, or peaceful shoaling cyprinids large enough to avoid predation but no threat in return, works best. It is loosely gregarious but males hold territories, so cover and space are needed.
Feed small snails and shelled crustaceans regularly to wear down the continuously growing teeth, alongside frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp. Dried food should not be the staple.
At least one spawning is documented. The male darkens and extends his ventral ridge in display, and several hundred eggs are deposited among plants and decor. The adults eat the eggs and must be removed; hatching takes about 65 hours.
Its body carries tetrodotoxin, so a dead fish must never be fed to other animals. It is uncommon in the hobby and easily confused with related red-eye puffers, so check fin colour and markings. The IUCN rates it Least Concern.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Red-tailed Red-eye Puffer is 20〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Red-tailed Red-eye Puffer is 3-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Red-tailed Red-eye Puffer typically reaches Up to 4.4cm SL as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Red-tailed Red-eye Puffer feeds on: Small snails, shelled crustaceans, frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Red-tailed Red-eye Puffer varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026