backgrounds for shy puffers

[certraline]

I've never had a background on any of my tanks because I always thought they looked kinda cheesy.

However, I've read elsewhere on the fora (or is it forums in an internet context? can never remember...) that having a background on the tank can make your fish feel more secure. My c. lorteti (now living with me for ~ a month) are very shy, and I really only see them for a couple seconds a day -- though I did get to see both of them today, which was a rare bonus -- even though I spend a fair amount of time gazing into the tank and trying to make them out. Does anyone have any ideas as to whether adding a background might make a difference in the number of puffer sightings?

[Nick]

The background makes that wall of the tank seem like a secure, dark area, from which no predator can come. Thus, they can more freely investigate the front glass, as they won't "have their back" to a location danger can come from.

[Freshy]

yes. Adding a background will certainly make a difference.

my Fang's puffer swim out of its hiding places more often after I added a background poster to my tank.

will be better if you can add in some floating/tall/board leaves plants to provide more shades/covers.