The Puffer Forum

I haven't owned puffers before...I have just got 3 small (approx 1.5") GSPs for my 30 gallon brakish tank, they have no other tank mates. When I bought them, I was told that this was fine for my tank, also suggesting adding 3 F8s. After having read some posts I'm now concerned my tank is too small for my 3 GSPs? Looks like I'll have to get a bigger tank soon! How urgent is this?

it is ok for a few weeks. Most fish keepers will quarantine new fish in small hospital tanks for a few weeks anyway...BUT after that they MUST be in a larger tank..or you risk stunting AND you filter will not be able to keep up with the bioload so water changes ever couple of days are a must

You can leave one in the 30 gallon..and get an additional 55 gallon for the remaining 2

F8's cannot live with GSPs because GSPs require high brackish to marine salt levels and f8's need light brackish..

Here you go..
ug.php/v/PufferPedia/Brackish/T_Nigroviridis/

And
library/puffers-in-focus/an-introductio ... d-puffers/

Also, do you have pictures ?

Bridget wrote:...When I bought them, I was told that this was fine for my tank, also suggesting adding 3 F8s...

I know pet store employees can't know everything but they should be trained enough to know that there are exceptions to the 1" per gallon rule. Technically 3 Gsps are 18" and 3 F8s are 9" so that leaves 3" to spare in a 30g tank...Right?

If I were you I'd return two of the fish if you can't have a larger tank. And also keep in mind the salinity needs of a GSP, maybe a F8 or two might be a better option. You could also have a few tankmates with a single F8...These are the two things that made my mind up.

God luck!

if you got them from walmart do not take them back there..they will flush them down the toilet..

instead post and add here for them or donate them to a nice mom and pop pet store..

it is ok for a few weeks

Only if that tank has been cycled... Has it???

purplecandle wrote:if you got them from walmart do not take them back there..they will flush them down the toilet..

instead post and add here for them or donate them to a nice mom and pop pet store..

+1

The tank has been cycled. I'll have to start looking for a larger tank, I really don't want to return them!

Try a 90g or larger--might as well get the tank they'll be needing as adults.

I would suggest larger than a 90.

I have room for a 5' tank, what kind of filter should I use? Any advice welcome!

Bridget wrote:I have room for a 5' tank, what kind of filter should I use? Any advice welcome!

I am not going to recommend a brand, but people around here love aquaclears

I just wanted to say that if it is possible two filters would be cool IMO

Help oxygenate the water..have flow on both sides..

^
And cover your rear-end in case one filter dies.