Pufferfish for sale in the Netherlands

Pufferfish: behaviour and suitability

Pufferfish investigate their environment purposefully and recognise feeding routines. Many species injure tank mates with a quick bite, even if shop housing appears temporarily calm. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

Match salinity and temperature to the scientific species and offer hard-shelled invertebrates to support normal dental wear. Never deliberately make a puffer inflate and do not lift it dry in a net. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

Check abdomen, teeth, breathing and feeding. Many wild-caught fish carry internal parasites. Ask about origin, current salinity and accepted foods and arrange knowledgeable veterinary help beforehand. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.