Amazon Puffer (Colomesus asellus)

A true freshwater pufferfish found throughout the entire Amazon Basin, the Amazon Puffer or South American Puffer is a small growing and relatively peaceful species that inhabits shallow water habitat. They are usually found in medium to large aggregations in sandy shallows, often in sediment-laden whitewater rivers or streams. In the aquarium, they are one of the few puffer species which will thrive in groups, and they are generally safe with similarly-sized, fast moving tankmates. Amazon Puffers are primarily carnivores but will usually accept a wide variety of frozen and freeze dried foods. Hard-shelled prey items are a necessary addition to their diet, so snails, shrimp, small crayfish, and other molluscs should be offered regularly to ensure their sharp beaks do not get overgrown.