Who Gives A Fish Forums

Thinking about setting up a 15-gallon with a dwarf puffer. What tankmates would work, or should I keep it species-only? I've got a sponge filter, sand substrate, and some Java fern. Water params are stable, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate.

Dwarf puffers can be territorial, so I'd recommend a species-only tank. They're aggressive feeders and might nip at slower fish. If you're set on tankmates, try small, fast species like Chili Rasboras, but monitor closely. Your setup sounds solid, though.

Yeah, puffers are little murder beans. I tried keeping mine with shrimp once… once. They were gone in a day. Stick to solo puffers unless you wanna run a snack bar.

I've got a 15-gallon with a puffer and some snails. He chills with them, mostly ignores 'em. Maybe 'cause they're too big to eat? Dunno, but it's working for me.

Snails can work if they're larger, like Nerites. Dwarf puffers need live or frozen food, so keep that in mind. Your tank sounds well-cycled, which is great for their sensitivity.

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll probably go species-only to avoid drama. Gonna add more plants for cover.

morgel wrote: ↑Tue Jul 29, 2025 11:32 am Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll probably go species-only to avoid drama. Gonna add more plants for cover.

Smart move. Dense plants like Anubias or Java moss will help them feel secure. Just watch for aggression between puffers if you add more than one.

Yeah, and don't forget to feed 'em bloodworms or snails. They get cranky if they're hungry. Mine stares at me like I owe him money.

Mine does the same thing! Little dude acts like I'm late with rent. Anyway, good luck with the tank. Post pics when it's set up.

mossyfrog wrote: ↑Tue Jul 29, 2025 12:33 pm Yeah, and don't forget to feed 'em bloodworms or snails. They get cranky if they're hungry. Mine stares at me like I owe him money.

That's puffer behavior for you. They're full of personality. Just keep up with water changes, they're messy eaters.