Amazon Puffer

Colomesus asellus is the sole Tetraodontidae representative in South America, living in the flooded forests, lakes, and river channels of the Amazon basin. Its schooling nature sets it entirely apart from all other puffers, and it actively benefits from conspecific company. Ramshorn snails must be cultured as a permanent food source to prevent beak overgrowth, which can be fatal if left unmanaged.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft and slightly acidic; Amazon-style blackwater conditions are optimal. Tank: Minimum 100 L for a group of five; heavily planted with open mid-water swimming space. Feeding: Ramshorn snails (essential and continuous supply), bloodworm, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Behaviour: Social and active; less aggressive than other puffers but still fin-nips slow tankmates. Compatibility: Best in conspecific groups; can coexist with fast, robust South American dither fish.