Blue Spotted Puffer, Acting different

[Sstadler]

Hello. Just curious if anyone has any insight on this type of behavior from a blue spotted puffer.

Added a blue spotted puffer to my tank almost 18 months ago. This was after a full length QT in copper, Metro, and prazi.

He was added to the DT and has been a celebrity since. Very active, loves being front & center, usually spits water out of the top of the tank when he sees me coming with food.

Approximately a week ago, I noticed that he has become super shy. Seems to be hiding from the light and from high flow areas during the daytime. Doesn’t really travel around the tank anymore. Definitely doesn’t come to the surface for feedings. I haven’t changed anything or added anything since he was added.

Doesn’t have any visual changes on his appearance or any obvious signs of illness.

Other tank inhabitants are clownfish, CBB, harlequin tusk, flame angel, scopas tang, Kole tang, emperor angel, blue hippo, desjardini. I haven’t noticed a hint of aggression anywhere.

Any insights would be appreciated.

 

[bluemon]

Do you know how he acts when you are away from the tank? Maybe set up your phone camera to observe?

I’ve had fish be scared of me because I’m wearing a darker color, so it could be that.

Or if the weather became hotter so you’re wearing short sleeves.

But could be aggression from the fish. Either way a secret camera would help

 

[Sstadler]

Do you know how he acts when you are away from the tank? Maybe set up your phone camera to observe?

I’ve had fish be scared of me because I’m wearing a darker color, so it could be that.

Or if the weather became hotter so you’re wearing short sleeves.

But could be aggression from the fish. Either way a secret camera would help

Good thought, I’ll give it a try. He’s been in there long enough that it shouldn’t be an issue. He’s seen me in every outfit possible I’m sure. Still eating well, and will venture out of the shy darkness to chase some food. But still, definitely a huge shift in behavior