Humpback puffer

Pao palembangensis

A humped back and marbled belly; not the brackish figure-eight puffer

A raised back, mottled brown-yellow body and patterned underside create a distinctive ambush silhouette.

Adult length: Up to 19.4 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 24–28 °C

Natural habitat: Inhabits lakes and rivers.

Long stillness and unusual resting positions do not make this predator safe with small fish or shrimp.

View comparison →

Appearance and identification

The old common name Palembang puffer has also been used for Dichotomyctere ocellatus. Pao palembangensis is a separate freshwater species; do not apply the brackish care of the other.

Social behaviour and territory

Keep singly; pairs still fight.

Compatibility limits

Small fish and shrimp may be hunted, and larger companions are not guaranteed safe.

Space requirements

Provide caves, roots, smooth cover and clean water.

Aquarium environment

Plants can supply cover without filling all bottom space; they do not remove predation risk.

Diet and feeding

Confirm accepted live or frozen foods and watch for transition to non-live items. Offer diverse suitable invertebrate foods; live feeder fish are not needed.

Sources