The Puffer Forum

I turn out the lights in my community tank every night. the fish settle at the bottom like they know it is bedtime. when i turn them on in the morning they all become active again. Should i do this with my DPs? I turned the light out one time and they seemed to be confused?

Do you leave the light on all the time for your DPs? I'd get a timer and just have it come on in the morning and turn off at night. Fish probably need a natural day/night cycle just like all other animals.

Yeah, leaving the light on can't be good for the DPs. The ones I had would curl up and sleep on the substrate at night time.

i've only had them a few days, so i'm really just learning their behavior. they are eating very well and they seem to recognize me. i haven't turned the lights off for any amount of time , because when i do they start swimming real fast and jumping around in circles. i,m going to try again. maybe they just have to get used to the difference in the light.
thanks

DPs tend to be somewhat skittish, especially when you first gt them. But yes, they need a day/night cycle just like everyone else. Just make sure they have PLENTY of decor to hide in and turn on the room light first before turning on their tank light.

I think a timer is a great, cheap way to never have to worry when to turn on/off the lights.

Your puffers will get used to the timing as well. Mine retreat to their 'beds' moments before the light goes out. It really neat

Timers are one of the best things to have for your lighting. You allow a more constant amount of light in the tank without having it on for too long or too short of a time.

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Direct sunlight?

You can set the most basic of timers to come on hours you want on or off. It needs not be one time on/off only.