
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Sphoeroides asellus
A small South American puffer with black bars across a yellow back. Widespread in the Amazon basin, it is unusual among puffers in forming loose shoals, and is kept in pure fresh water with no added salt.
Sphoeroides asellus is a small puffer found widely in the Amazon basin from Peru to Marajo Island, in the Araguaia and Guapore, and near the mouth of the Orinoco. FishBase records a maximum of 12.8cm SL, pH 5.5-7.2, 5-15 dH and 22-28C, and notes the distinct large black spot on the underside of the caudal peduncle. It was long known as Colomesus asellus, a name still used by most of the trade and literature. Seriously Fish gives 20-26C, pH 5.5-8.0, 2-15 dGH and a 120 x 30cm base, and recommends groups of six or more because the species forms loose aggregations in the wild. It is less aggressive than most puffers but becomes nervous when kept alone. Its teeth grow throughout life, so shelled food is required. Breeding has not been recorded in aquaria. The IUCN rates it Least Concern.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The South American Puffer lives 3-5 years.
The South American Puffer grows to Up to 12.8cm SL.
The ideal temperature for the South American Puffer is 20〜26℃.
Origin
South America (Amazon basin, the mouth of the Orinoco and the Essequibo)
Lifespan
3-5 years
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Sphoeroides asellus (Müller & Troschel, 1849)
Synonyms: Colomesus asellus, Cheilichthys asellus
Authority databases: FishBase
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Size
Up to 12.8cm SL
Temperature
20〜26℃
Snails, crab legs and cockles, plus earthworms and frozen bloodworm
Seriously Fish suggests a 120 x 30cm base. Because it is kept in groups, allow generous swimming space and break up sightlines with driftwood and plants. Hard surfaces also help wear the teeth.
Seriously Fish gives 20-26C, pH 5.5-8.0 and 2-15 dGH, while FishBase records pH 5.5-7.2, 5-15 dH and 22-28C in the wild. It is a true freshwater fish and needs no added salt.
Not aggressive as such, but unsuited to a general community; a species tank or a large riverine setup is better. It shoals loosely, so six or more should be kept together.
Feed snails, crab legs and cockles regularly to wear the teeth down. Evidence suggests aufwuchs forms a significant part of the natural diet, so some algal growth on hard decor is worth allowing.
Breeding has not been recorded in aquaria. Its strategy resembles that of marine puffers: high fecundity, small eggs and no parental care. Spawning occurs in main channels or at the mouths of floodplain lakes during high water, and the pelagic larvae drift into floodplain nurseries.
Its body carries tetrodotoxin, so a dead fish must never be fed to other animals. Overgrown teeth are the commonest problem, so never let shelled food lapse. The IUCN rates it Least Concern and it is not listed by CITES.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for South American Puffer is 20〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of South American Puffer is 3-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
South American Puffer typically reaches Up to 12.8cm SL as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
South American Puffer feeds on: Snails, crab legs and cockles, plus earthworms and frozen bloodworm. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of South American Puffer varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026