The Puffer Forum

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Starting a brackish Aquarium, an article by Cody Shoup

Does anyone agree though that the proposed stocking is a bit off? 8 GSP's and 10 BBG's in a 125?

I would not keep GSPs and BBGs together in any size tank. I think that PP will agree with me on that. But the same setup substituting F-8s would more appropriate if a bit too crowded for me.

The page also says no hydrometer is needed for brackish tanks, and that your tanks must be fed 2x/day if not 3.

I still think it's a good page...but like most internet sites, or books, it's not perfect.

It's what got me started with brackish (although I bought a hydrometer...call me paranoid).

Eric

It is far better than most, and a lot of work went into it, with input from plenty of knowledgeable folks - including some locals here. But in the end, it is the creator's page, so total agreement is not to be expected.

so what do we think good page for a puffer beginer??

We do have good articles on GSPs and F-8s in the Library here, plus multiple articles on feeding and tank management and setup. Badman's site is for aimed a general audience, ours is more specific to puffers, but the filtration articles are quite general.

Is the mentioned site using US or UK gallons? Just interested as new to all this!

trying to get my rescued F8 into his correct environment was been sold as freshwater!

This sight is helping no end! THANKS everyone

US Gallons...1 F8 per 15 US Gallon

that was a good read, kinda basic, but i dont understand all the big words people normaly use any way lol

My gsp was sold as freshwater, so I shouldn't go straight to the suggested salinaty should I? wouldn't that shock him?

Fish actually handle salinity changes pretty well, if you do them properly (slow acclimation, drip method is best). Brackish water fish are designed to swim through various salinities.. imagine one swimming along a marsh and swimming into the flow of water from a freshwater stream coming into the marsh.. they adjust to it. Obviously the slower and easier the acclimation the less stress, and less stress is always good.

The tank bacteria can't handle changes though, and puffers can't handle a tank that doesn't have established bacteria.

So you can do it either way, cycle the tank freshwater, get the fish, and slowly increase the salinity .002 or less every week until you reach the desired salinity, or you can cycle the tank at your goal salinity and then slowly acclimate the fish once you buy it.

thanks, I wasn't sure and I don't want to kill my little guy. my bf says I'm obsessed but I'm just determined to have a good tank for Smegal.

There's worst hobbies/habits to have.. just tell him that!