South American Freshwater Puffer Fish Information

Physical Description

• South American freshwater puffer fish are predominantly yellow and black in color, their distinctive striped pattern earning them the nickname bumble bee puffer fish. However, some individuals are more boldly colored than others. They have a big, dark-colored spot on their undersides, a little in front of the caudal fin, which is one of the ways you can differentiate them from the banded puffer. They're usually around 3 inches long, but can grow up to 5 inches in length.

Habitat

• As the name suggests, the South American freshwater puffer fish originates from South America -- all along the Amazon basin. They're not territorial in their natural habitat and rather migrate up and down the river. They will even move into lakes and flooded estuaries if the opportunity arises. They're tolerant of a range of conditions and will even live in slightly brackish water.

Temperament

• Unlike other species of puffer fish, the South American puffer is relatively peaceful and can even be quite shy. This means that they're suitable to be kept in a community tank, although you will have to be quite careful when choosing your puffer's tank mates. These fish do have a tendency to nip the fins of other fish, though mostly just at feeding time. As such, you should avoid housing them with slow-moving and long-finned fish, such as gouramis and angel fish.

Aquarium Life

• South American freshwater puffer fish are relatively easy to keep in a home aquarium. They like to be kept in groups of at least three of their species. You should allow a minimum of 15 gallons per puffer. They should be kept in a tank with a sand substrate and plenty of plants and driftwood to provide hiding spots and entertainment. Keep the water temperature between 72 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit, the pH between 5.5 and 8.80 and the hardness between 5 and 20 degrees of general hardness. Ensure a moderate amount of water movement, as these fish like to have currents in their tank.