The Puffer Forum

I recently got a 3" F8 puffer from my LFS. When I picked him up at the store I thought he had puffed because his belly was so big, but after several days the belly has remained the same size only decreasing slightly after a 24 hour fast. Could this possibly be internal parasites or is it normal for a large F8 to look like this? If it is internal parasites does anyone have any recommended food treatments. I can't find my camera and he is to fast for my phone's camera, but I'll try to post a picture.

I bought one a few years ago that had a large belly. It had IPs and died a week later. viewtopic.php?f=3&t=24334

Your fish also could've been severely over fed at the store, but I would think the belly would go down in a day or two. Have you seen it poop?

Yes the poo will tell you. Generally ip's cause the belly to sink and look pinched in 24-36 hours unless they are riddled. You would be wise to treat him if he is eating. Jungle fizz parasite tabs are your prime choice. Treat the food not the water. It's never a bad thing to play it safe

It has been large for about 5 days. I haven't seen him poop yet. He is still eating, so I will try soaking the food to play it safe. Thanks for the advice.

Possibly constipated then. Treat the tank with 1 tbsp Epsom salts/5g.