The Puffer Forum

I am a new puffer owner. I bought my puffer at a local aquatic shop and I was told he is a MBU puffer. After having him for a week, I've noticed that after research he does not look completely like a MBU puffer. As for his care I keep him freshwater and 79 degree 6 gallon tank. Feed him plenty of snails, and he looks to be healthy. His patern and colors are different from MBU but his body style is that of a MBU and a Tetra type puffer that you can find at most pet stores. He has the personality of a puppy hes so excited and friendly. Regardless of whether he is a hybrid or mixed puffer I adore him either way. Please let me know if you guys know what he may be??

Your puffer is a M Turgidis. They are FW, very personable & will grow to about 4". Does not play well with others. Needs a 20-30g tank. What sized tank is it in? Is it cycled? Were you actually looking for a mbu?

He is about 2" right now. In a 6 gallon tank. The tank is cycled. He was sold as a mbu so I've been caring for him as one.. but I knew he looked different. I planned on getting a bigger tank, but now I am glad that you recommend that. Since he was a gift I actually had no preference in what kind of puffer.

I'm extremely relieved you didn't wind up with a mbu!
How did you cycle this tank?

My tank came with all the cycling products when I first bought it. API step by step products. I use Tetra: easy balance plus with my weekly 25% water changes. I usually wait 3-4 hours after to test my water. I am relieved as well because those puffers get huge.

What are your immediate plans for upgrading this fish? It's tank is already much too small. They also need a cave to hide out in.

I’m going to get a larger tank as you described 20-30 gallons and get it set up with sand and plants something much more suited for him. Definitely cycled first because I know they’re really sensitive. Like I said he was a gift and until this forum I had no clue what he required due to misinformation from the fish store. I have had a hard time finding information on the internet at all. The store told me 6 gallons was suitable which is really upsetting.

Yeah 6 gallons is too small... the cheapest thing to do is get a 29 gallon kit if you’re in the US or look on Craigslist for a reasonable used tank

viewtopic.php?f=38&t=28881

Got a 20 gal tank today and set it up for cycling. Will post a picture in a few days!

You can just move all the substrate/decor/filter media to the new tank & add Tetra Safestart to the filter, for an instant cycle.

I bought a 20 gal tank is the entire bottle of safe start ok? The directions say so but I’m worried as to how long I should wait with it.

I would just add 20ml, that's for 20g. Shake well & add to the filter.

I’ve done so thank you for all the advice. How soon should I move my puffer in and is he fine to go without floating..? Temperature is the same.

Put him in there now, with the Safestart.