Is this normal for F8's?

[HeatherRW]

I have a young tank of about 2 months. I bought 3 F8 puffers, and 2 died with in 3 days with HORRIBLE ich. The third is in great health. After treating ich I bought 2 more F8's. All are looking good and eating good. What has me worried is the survivor from the first batch is hanging around all by himself and doesn't have anything to do with the other 2. Before they came he was all over the place and fine. Now he just kind of hangs out in the corners and under the filter :/ He still eats good and looks good, well his color may be a little darker, but his belly is still really white. Is this normal? Thanks in advance for any input.

[Pufferpunk]

There is always a pecking order among the animal kingdom. Try redecorating the tank. Be sure you have LOTS of decor, all the way to the top, breaking up lines of sight.

[Pufftastic]

It's possible he's intimidated by the new arrivals. It can take several weeks before they establish who's in charge. It's good that they're not fighting right off the bat, though.

How large is your tank? I wouldn't keep 3 F8s in fewer than 40 gallons myself -- these guys need room, not just to establish territories, but to swim. They're fairly active and inquisitive, and really enjoy their space.

[Pufferpunk]

I think it's 46g.

[HeatherRW]

Yes it is a 46 gal.