HELP! My saddle puffer just puffed!

[Charcole]

My saddle puffer just puffed up! What does it mean? What do I do? He's new - I just acclimated him today. Is he in danger? He seemed happy...

 

[Charcole]

Okay, crisis averted; he was stuck to the filter. Do you guys have any tips on how to prevent this? Thanks!

 

[Eienna]

Okay, crisis averted; he was stuck to the filter. Do you guys have any tips on how to prevent this? Thanks!

Healthy fish usually don't stick to the filter...how'd that happen?

Puffing with water is potentially dangerous, but what you REALLY need to avoid is him puffing with air. If they're out of water when they puff they will do that. Best way to avoid it is never to have it out of water, but if for some reason that happens you can "burp" it by holding him underwater by the tail, vertically with head up towards the surface, and shake gently.

 

[NanaReefer]

Healthy fish usually don't stick to the filter...how'd that happen?

Puffing with water is potentially dangerous, but what you REALLY need to avoid is him puffing with air. If they're out of water when they puff they will do that. Best way to avoid it is never to have it out of water, but if for some reason that happens you can "burp" it by holding him underwater by the tail, vertically with head up towards the surface, and shake gently.

Where are you getting your info from?

 

[Eienna]

I don't remember. I found that little piece of info when I was researching green spotted puffers way back when my 29g was brackish.

 

[FL_Reefer]

Nothing to worry about. This is a protective defense that Puffers have which prevents them from being eaten by other fish. They do look funny though. Our puffer was our fav fish. Hope this helps.