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I have a freshwater pufferfish and he isn’t eating the fish flakes like the other 6 fish in the tank (red tail shark, clown loach, and tetras). Do they need to be fed live or frozen food? He also butts into the aquarium walls here and there. Is this caused because of stress or anxiety? If so how can I fix that as well.

I have a freshwater pufferfish and he isn’t eating the fish flakes like the other 6 fish in the tank (red tail shark, clown loach, and tetras). Do they need to be fed live or frozen food? He also butts into the aquarium walls here and there. Is this caused because of stress or anxiety? If so how can I fix that as well.

Updated On December 10th, 2018

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

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Most puffers will not eat flakes or pellets. They need live or frozen foods. They also require hard foods to keep their teeth worn down. The local Petco will likely have these foods in stock. If the tank is overstocked, he may be stressed. He may also have an infection (bacterial, fungal or parasites) that are causing his symptoms. Ideally, a new fish should be quarantined for 2-4 weeks before being introduced to the main tank.

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