Crested Puffer tank mates
Carinotetraodon lorteti
5 rated pairings from the Crested Puffer care guide. Compatibility here means water, temperament, tank zone and adult size all line up — the note on each card says why. Crested Puffer needs at least 15 gallons on its own; every companion adds to that.
Use caution
5 · Works in the right setup; read the note before combining.
Kuhli Loach
Pangio kuhlii
20 gal min · 4" adult · Peaceful
Bottom dwellers that may avoid puffer aggression but can still be nipped; use with caution and monitor closely.
Rosy Loach
Petruichthys sp. rosy
10 gal min · 1.2" adult · Peaceful
Fast-moving and small enough to coexist cautiously, but puffer aggression remains a risk.
Otocinclus
Otocinclus vittatus
10 gal min · 1.5" adult · Peaceful
Peaceful algae eaters that may be tolerated but are vulnerable to fin nipping from puffers.
Assassin Snail
Clea helena
5 gal min · 1" adult · Peaceful
Snails serve as a food source for puffers; assassin snails may survive longer due to their thick shells but are still at risk.
Zipper Loach
Acanthocobitis botia
20 gal min · 3" adult · Peaceful
Active loach that can potentially hold its own but should be monitored for signs of stress or nipping.
Planning this tank?
Run the whole stock list through the calculator — it checks bioload and schooling numbers, not just pairings.