Colomesus asellus, commonly known as the Amazonian pufferfish, is a unique and intriguing species of pufferfish hailing from the Amazon River basin in South America. They make interesting additions to advanced aquariums.
Introducing Colomesus Asellus
Popular aquarium strains include the Albino C. asellus, displaying a mostly white body with orange eyes, and the Golden C. asellus with a vibrant yellow hue.
General Information
- Origin: Native to the Amazon River basin in South America
- Size: Up to 6 inches long
- Lifespan: 5-10 years with proper care
- Temperament: Largely peaceful but can be territorial with its own kind
- Appearance: Stocky, puffed body, large eyes, beak-like mouth. Dark brown to black in color.
- Varieties: Common, albino, golden morphs
- Price: $15 – $45 depending on size and morph
Habitat and Tank Requirements
- Natural Habitat: Slow-moving tributaries and flooded Amazon forest
- Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons
- Water Conditions: Temperature 72-82°F, pH 6.5-7.5, soft to moderately hard
- Tank Setup: Fine gravel substrate, driftwood, plants, open swimming space
Feeding
- Diet: Omnivorous; flakes, pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, vegetables
- Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
- Foods: High-quality pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, spirulina flakes, blanched zucchini and cucumber
Breeding
- Reproduction: No reported breeding in home aquariums yet
- Conditions: Likely requires a simulation of rainy season with water changes
- Process: Males likely attract females via courtship displays. Hundreds of eggs scattered. No parental care.
Health Issues
- Prone to ich if introduced fish are infected
- Sensitive to poor water conditions
- Bloating if fed too much dry foods
- Use quarantine, frequent water changes, and varied diet
Special Care
- Compatibility: Can be housed with similarly sized peaceful fish. Avoid fin nippers.
- Care Level: Moderate. Requires large tank and high water quality.
- Restrictions: None
Suitable Tankmates:
- Tetras
- Barbs
- Danios
- Angelfish
- Gouramis
- Corydoras catfish
- Larger plecos
Sexual Differences:
- Males have more pointed anal fins.
- Females grow larger, especially when carrying eggs.
- Color intensity can help indicate gender.
How many species of Colomesus asellus?
One – Colomesus asellus
How to feed Colomesus asellus to make their color birghter?
Provide a nutritious varied diet with greens and shrimp. Optimize tank conditions.
How Big do Colomesus asellus Grow?
Up to 6 inches long
How fast do Colomesus asellus grow?
Relatively slow growing, reaching max size after 2-3 years
How long do Colomesus asellus live?
5-10 years in captivity when cared for properly
How to take care of Colomesus asellus?
30+ gallon tank, soft water, live plants, driftwood hideouts, varied diet
Which food products are the best for Colomesus asellus?
Shrimp, bloodworms, pellets, zucchini, spirulina flakes
Is good to keep Colomesus asellus as Pets?
Yes, for advanced aquarists. Peaceful community fish.
Why my Colomesus asellus die?
Usually old age, poor water quality, improper diet, disease
Are Colomesus asellus Aggressive?
Mostly peaceful but can be territorial with own kind
Do Colomesus asellus kill other fish?
No, not prone to nipping fins of tankmates
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