Mike’s Fish Tank – Pufferfish

The freshwater pufferfish have become very popular.

A Freshwater Puffers Natural Habitat Freshwater puffers are found in river systems throughout Southeast Asia, parts of India and Bangladesh, the Amazon basin in South America, and the Congo, Nile and other rivers in Africa.The Gold-ringed puffer is even found in Lake Tanganyika! A few species occur in open water, but most are found along riverbanks often among submerged plants. They live in tropical and temperate climates.

Puffers “E.T.” like faces and unique personalities are what attract people to them and lead many who keep them to consider them a true pet. They learn to recognize their human companions, greeting them enthusiastically when they approach the aquarium and will even hand feed. Puffer fish can be found in the ocean, brackish estuaries and freshwater habitats around the world. Some species move back and forth between different environments on a regular basis. Of the approximately 150 known species of puffer fish, fewer than 30 are considered strictly freshwater.

Freshwater puffers do best with the temperature between 74° and 78° F. Aquarium salt should not be added to a freshwater puffer aquarium unless it is used to treat diseases.

Freshwater puffers can be fin nippers, and some are downright aggressive and/or predatory. For the most part, freshwater puffers should be considered species tank fish.

Smaller species are omnivorous and will thrive on a varied diet that includes Tropical Flakes, Color Flakes, Spirulina Flakes, Tropical Granules, Algae Rounds, Bottom Feeder Tablets and Shrimp Pellets. Frozen foods should also be fed as treats to improve growth and color.

Pets A Plenty is located on Rte 281 Cortland, across from Tops Market in the TJ Nails Plaza. 753-9213. Open 7 days a week. We now have a website. www.petsaplety.biz. check it out. I post care sheets, coupons, new animal arrivals, contests and more. Any questions, email me at friskyy@hotmail.com.