Banded Puffer

Colomesus psittacus is the larger of the two South American puffer species, reaching up to 30 cm in tidal rivers and estuaries from Trinidad and Guyana south through Brazil. It differs from C. asellus in its larger size, preference for brackish conditions as an adult, and less social behaviour. Relatively rarely traded, it represents an exciting challenge for specialist South American biotope aquarists.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.5–8.0; adults benefit from low-end brackish (SG 1.002–1.008) in tidal biotopes. Tank: Minimum 300 L; open sandy substrate, robust driftwood, and minimal planting in adult brackish setup. Feeding: Large snails, clams, mussels, prawns, and earthworms. Behaviour: Less social than C. asellus; territorial as adults — individual or species-only housing preferable. Compatibility: Species-only for adults; juveniles may tolerate conspecifics in large tanks.