The Puffer Forum

Hello. So about a month ago I went out and bought my first Dwarf Puffer. She has a great personality and seems really friendly. I have a 10gal tank in my room. The only problem I have with my tank is PH its a little high so I've been doing 10% water changes and now I'm trying adding aquarium salt to help it. But despite all of that... My puffer looked like it could use a friend so I went out and got her one. Now my sweet loving DP keeps nipping at my new one. Is this normal? Like the other one will go up really close to her and she is fine. Then out of no where my old one will just like swim up to the new one and try biting her. She doesn't actually grab her or anything but nips right by her. Is this normal?? What should I expect? I'm new to this! Thanks for any input!

Define "too high". DPs are from alkaline water, pH 8.3.

DPs are FW, aquarium salt is not needed or required, and has nothing to do with pH.

It is common for new fish to be harassed by the original inhabitants, especially with moderately to strongly territorial fish such as puffers. A large water change with rearrangement of the decor and plants usually helps.

Even though you may think your fish looks lonely, they really aren't. We tend to project human emotions onto our pets.

If the tank rearrangement doesn't help, or if either puffer looks sulky and tends to cower at the bottom of the tank, consider taking the new addition back to the store.

DP's all have different personalities. Some will readily accept a new fish while others will beat it to death. Of course it could be your new DP that would chase the other one but usually it's the other way round.

It is best to stock 2f/1m. You don't really want 2 males in the same tank, especially during spawning. Some will put up with each other but again it comes down to personality.

Chasing during feeding is common. As long as you make sure both are getting food no worries if this is the case.