Need Advice Quickly

[paxton.rock]

My Porcupine Puffer along with 3 other fish died abruptly today. The puffer has been dead for a maximum of 12 hours. But also could’ve died only 2 hours ago. I just got home. I don’t know if porcupines release a toxin upon death or after 12 hours of being dead. My main concern is, I have open wounds on my hand. Will I be safe putting my hand in the water? All I’m worried about is if the puffer releases toxin. I’m not worried about a dirty fish tank.

 

[paxton.rock]

@Jay Hemdal

 

[blaxsun]

Just use a pair of rubber gloves.

 

[paxton.rock]

Just use a pair of rubber gloves.

Do they release toxin?

 

[bluemon]

Do they release toxin?

They generally don't. They are poisonous in that they accumulate tetrodotoxin in their skin and organs. That being said, once they star decaying, their toxin can definitely get in the water. So be careful

 

[blaxsun]

Do they release toxin?

Even if you don't (though apparently they can per above), if you have open wounds you should always wear something to avoid getting any kind of infection.

 

[Outlaw Corals]

Porcupine puffers do not release toxins. No need to worry.

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

@Jay Hemdal

Sorry, I don't know the exact answer. They do have toxins in their skin, but can that be transferred by the spines? I don't know. I've heard people say yes, and others say no. The normal way they are poisonous is if you were to eat them. There is no risk of toxins in the water itself.

However, ANY fish that has died in an aquarium should be handled wearing gloves as there are some nasty bacteria like Vibrio that humans can get sick from.

Jay