The Puffer Forum

I recently purchased a fahaka puffer that is about 2 inches in length. He is the only fish in a 38 gallon tank with a sand bottom. The tank is a brand new set up and has no problems with excessive nitrite or ammonia. It all sounds great; however, the fahaka has been burried in a corner of the aquarium and does not move very often and has not taken any food. He seemed to be swimming around and very lively when i saw him in the pet store tank. I dont know if there is something wrong with the chemistry of the tank or if it's the fact that there are no other fish in the tank (even though i know it's not a good idea to keep them with other fish). If anybody has any ideas, please let me know.

Did you cycle the tank properly before you added him?

Are there any tankmates?

How recently did you get him? It may just be that he's stressed in his new surroundings and needs time to settle in.

I also just wanted to add that it's always best when you buy a fish you be sure to buy a tank that can properly house it full grown (in this situation a fish that grows over 16"). Continuously upgrading tanks as he grows is costly and you risk stunting him. Is there any way you can upgrade his tank size? A 125 gallon or more would be ideal, especially when he is young. Puffers grow very quickly when young, so it is important to give them the space they need.

Here's a link with some basic info which you may or may not have read already:
http://www.thepufferforum.com/forum/ug. ... _Lineatus/


Btw, Welcome to the Puffer Forum!

You need to test the water,ASAP, for ammonia, nitrites, nitrates & pH. Please post here.

what does no excessive ammonia and nitrate actually mean.
It is common for some puffers to bury themselves and simply 'do nothing'

Any updates for us on your Fahaka?