The Puffer Forum

what is everyone keeping there MBU in? im looking to get one and it says 1000g theres no way everyone on this forum is keeping one in that size tank, whats the real story they get 10 inches bigger then a fahaka which is said to be kept in a 150g.......please let me know i dont wanna be misinformed and i really wanyt one of the amazing fish

Start by reading these:
viewtopic.php?f=56&t=150
library/puffers-in-focus/mbuforyou/

RTR wrote:I do consider 1000 gal the bare minimum, and that still will be a high-upkeep tank with alternate-day vacuuming and multiple water partials weekly. Few folks consider the mass of an adult T.mbu. Their mass is shocking. That is a lot of food in and waste out, and not as much room as you would think for exercise.

Could you maintain a small dog in a crate that size 24/7/365? Think about it.

Nope can't be done. Or rather, it can be done to the detriment of your pet.

Strong +1 to J-P's comment and my quote.

An adult T. mbu cannot turn around in a 150 without fin damage, nor can they swim in a tank that is only 2 1/2 times their own length. That is absurd. It is quite like an Oscar in a 10. Serious fish abuse IMNSHO.

POLSCOTDP wrote:what is everyone keeping there MBU in? im looking to get one and it says 1000g theres no way everyone on this forum is keeping one in that size tank, whats the real story they get 10 inches bigger then a fahaka which is said to be kept in a 150g.......please let me know i dont wanna be misinformed and i really wanyt one of the amazing fish

This is probably why most responsible fish owners don't buy an MBU... I had a guy here in Winnipeg looking for one, but I talked him out of it. As for the Fahaka in a 150... Mine is about 6"-7" and in a 150. I want to build and move him into a 300 gallon, but can't because I don't have the space yet. I will once I buy my next house.

Listen to what people say. If all you can handle is a 150 gallon... don't get an MBU. Start with a Fahaka (unless you haven't had a puffer before, in this case, guppies or convicts might be a good start). Puffers are very picky/sensitive to water conditions.