dwrf puffer

[Pointy_kitty]

what is the smallest tank size for a single dwarf puffer?
would one be happy solitary or with a pal?
what size of tank would i need if he would be happier in a pair?

i am hoping it will be a smaller tank, as i don't have a whole lot of space at the moment

 

[diVer]

You could put a dwarf puffer in a 3 or 5 gallon with really good filtration. They don't need to be in pairs. If they are kept together there needs to be plenty of cover for each one so they can set up territories wich will prevent fighting.

 

[Pointy_kitty]

so it would be ok with a 3.5 gallon mini aquarium with filter, java fern, air pump, heater, light and canopy all by its lonesome?

 

[Tempestuousfury]

Hmm.

Well, I'll have to move 2 from my tank.

It seems rather pointless to have only a single puffer in a 5 or even 3 in a ten. Oh well.

 

[diVer]

One in a 3.5 gallon should be fine. You might even be able to keep 2 for a while until they get old and grumpy, right now mine are still young and hang out with each other a lot. Although they are starting to get nippy.

Tempestuousfury: You are limited to only a few at the 10 gallon and under tanks because dwarf puffers are so territorial. But you can always put other fish in with them such as otos (I'm getting some more tomorrow , can't wait) and plecos. What size tank do you have them in now?

 

[Tempestuousfury]

I'm sure you'll tell us about those otos tomorrow.

That's a good idea.

However, I read they can be placed with gouramis. Now, seeing as how a 10 gallon is so small, that's a bad idea, but would it work in bigger tanks?

 

[diVer]

Dwarf puffers are fin nippers so there is a good chance the gourami will have its fins shredded. But if they were kept in a big enough tank it might work out but I wouldn't risk it. I've found my puffers are a lot more aggresive when they are hungry, so that will also reduce aggresion towards other fish.