Amazon Puffer

Colomesus asellus

Also known as: South American Puffer, Brazilian Puffer, Freshwater Puffer

An active, true freshwater puffer that lives happily in groups, unlike most puffers.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

72–82°F

pH

6.5–7.5

Hardness

5–15 dGH

Max size

3 in

Min tank

40 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Groups (6+)

Swim level

Middle

Diet

Carnivore

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

8-10 years

Breeding

Egg-layer

Suitability

Intermediate

Origin

Amazon and Orinoco basins, South America

Keep a group of six or more in a spacious tank with good flow and cover. Feed snails and crunchy frozen foods to wear down its teeth. It nips fins, so pair only with fast, sturdy fish and never with shrimp.