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how many dwarf puffers can I keep in my 5 gallon? Tankmates are 1 otocinclus, 1 ADF, and ghost shrimp. I was thinking 3. pretty heavily planted.

(i posted this in gen fresh instead of under puffers cause i'd like a quick response, thanks)

it might be pushing it
but u can try it.

id say 2

DP forum

EDIT: oh sorry i didnt see an ADF on the list..Id just get a couple of female bettas or something instead...

Last edited by dude_dude at 11-Apr-2005 18:15

Dwarf puffers are known to be quite aggressive, and like to nip fins and tails. I think your ADF would be in jeopardy, considering both the DPs and ADF would inhabit the same level of the tank. (Or, at least, I notice that DPs in my LCPS generally keep to the bottom of the tank.) Your shrimp might also be in danger.

I've heard that otos actually are pretty much ignored by the DPs, but I don't know if that's true.

I've never kept dwarf puffers, but I've done a lot of research because I intend to keep them one day. They're SO cute and seem rather intelligent (or at least VERY curious). They're best kept is a species tank, but there are a few fish that might be compatible... I'd ask around in the puffers forum, or take a look at dwarfpuffers.com.

Edit: Dangit! I hate it when people post while I'm posting. And someone beat me to the link, too. Sigh. Some days I'm just slow. :%)

Last edited by Kitten at 11-Apr-2005 18:15

~Meow. Thus spoke the cat.~

I think I will try the 3, I can potentially move the ADF if any problems arise, I have another tank with space for it if necesary...

also i havent added ghost shrimp yet, I would just like to in the future.

my guess is that the puper might attack the shrimp. i only had dwarf puppers once but they didn't last long,.

i say put 3-4 puffers and move the rest to another tank

I would say one dp in your current setup, two if you moved the other inhabitants out. DPs should have at least 3 gallons each. You also need to make sure that the tank if heavily decorated/planted with broken sight lines to keep the puffs from fighting.

Check out the DP link that was provided, lots of good information there.