Amazon Puffer Care Guide
The Amazon puffer (Colomesus asellus), also known as the South American puffer, is a unique and intelligent tropical freshwater fish growing in popularity across the UK. Known for its curious personality and active behaviour, it's a fascinating species for experienced fishkeepers.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Amazon puffer care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, feeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Amazon Puffers
Amazon puffers are freshwater pufferfish native to the Amazon Basin. Unlike many puffers, they are more social and can sometimes be kept in groups under the right conditions.
They are highly intelligent and require specialised care, particularly when it comes to diet.
Colomesus asellus
6-8 cm
Amazon Basin (South America)
100-120L (26-30gal)
8-10 years
Semi-aggressive, intelligent
24-28°C
Carnivore (snails, crustaceans, frozen foods)
6.0-7.5
£10-£20 per fish
How Many Amazon Puffers Should You Keep?
Amazon puffers can be kept singly or in small groups, but careful management is required.
- A single puffer is easiest to manage
- Groups of 3-5 can work in larger, well-structured tanks
- Plenty of space and visual barriers are essential
Keeping them incorrectly can lead to:
- Fin-nipping
- Territorial aggression
- Stress
Close observation is important when keeping multiple puffers.
Ideal Tank Conditions for Amazon Puffers
Creating a structured, stimulating environment is key to keeping Amazon puffers healthy.
- Tank Setup: A well-planted tank with open swimming space and visual barriers
- Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
- Plants & Decor: Dense planting, driftwood, and rocks help break line of sight
- Water Conditions: Soft to neutral water with excellent quality
- Filtration & Flow: Moderate flow with strong filtration is recommended
- Lighting: Moderate lighting works well
They are sensitive to poor water quality, so regular maintenance is essential.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Amazon puffers can be kept with other species, but compatibility is limited and requires caution.
- Possible Tankmates: fast-moving fish such as larger tetras or peaceful schooling fish
- Avoid: slow-moving fish, long-finned species, and small or delicate fish
Even in community setups, they may nip fins, so monitoring behaviour is essential.
Are Amazon Puffers Easy to Care For?
Amazon puffers are moderately difficult to care for and best suited to aquarists with some experience.
They require:
- Excellent water quality
- A specialised diet
- Careful tankmate selection
- Regular monitoring of behaviour
Their intelligence and specific needs make them rewarding but more demanding than typical community fish.
Amazon Puffer Price in the UK
In the UK, Amazon puffers typically cost between £10-£20 per fish.
Prices vary depending on:
- Size and condition
- Availability
- Shop vs hobbyist sellers
They are less commonly available than many community fish, which can affect pricing.
Where to Buy Amazon Puffers in the UK
Amazon puffers are available in some UK aquarium shops, but availability can be limited.
Sourcing fish locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Improve survival rates
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Amazon Puffers?
Yes - Amazon puffers can be sold or rehomed by hobbyists, particularly if care requirements become challenging.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Avoids the risks of shipping
- Connects you with experienced aquarists
TankMate UK allows you to list fish quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding Amazon Puffers
Diet is one of the most important aspects of Amazon puffer care.
Key Tips:
- Feed a varied diet of snails, bloodworms, and frozen foods
- Hard-shelled foods (like snails) help wear down their continuously growing teeth
- Avoid relying solely on dry foods
- Feed small amounts regularly
Without proper diet, their teeth can overgrow and cause serious health issues.
Common Problems with Amazon Puffers
- Fin-nipping, often caused by:
- Boredom
- Poor tankmate selection
- Lack of space
Overgrown teeth, caused by:
- Lack of hard foods like snails
Stress or illness, linked to:
- Poor water quality
- Inadequate tank setup
Why Amazon Puffers Are So Popular
- Highly intelligent and interactive
- Unique appearance and behaviour
- Can be kept in freshwater (unlike many puffers)
- Engaging to observe and feed
- Great for experienced aquarists
When kept correctly, Amazon puffers become one of the most engaging fish in the aquarium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they are one of the few true freshwater puffer species.
Yes, but only in carefully managed groups with enough space.
Yes, snails are important to help keep their teeth trimmed.
At least 100-120 litres, with more space for groups.
Looking to Buy or Sell Amazon Puffers Locally?
TankMate UK connects fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely within their local area.
Whether you're stocking your aquarium or passing fish on to a new home, you can:
- Browse fish available near you
- List your own fish in minutes
- Avoid the risks of shipping
Explore local listings with TankMate UK and find the right fish for your aquarium.