Tropical Dwarf Puffer

Question
I was just wondering about the intelligence of these little fish.At first he was too cold in the 2 gallon tank that we had and he would'nt eat the brine shrimp we had. Once I figured out that he was cold I purchased a small heater for the tank and within 1 hour he was a much happier fish. The only thing is he looks a stuff. When he's supposed to be eating he is looking at us watching him. I know he is because he follows my movements even when we aren't putting our fingers on the outside of the tank. (and no we don't tap, even that kids know it would bother him.) So far he has'nt touched the Tetra tha is in there with him, although the Tetra no longer chases puffer around. He currently seems so happy that he eats the biggest pieces of brine shrimp I thought were possible. I was told also that he has a small mouth and that his food should be small.

Anyway...any insight into puffer social behavior/environment likes and dislikes would be helpful. He is the cutest fish he seems to have a personality too.

Thanks for your help.

Felicia

Answer
Hi Felicia;

Puffers are pretty smart fellas and sooooo cute! He watches you because he knows you are where his food comes from. They can see pretty well too because puffers are predators. Don't worry about giving him small food. Puffers have very sharp teeth that take chunks out of things, especially other fish. They are cute, but can be pretty nasty too! There are actually two types of dwarf or "pygmy" puffers. Here are some sites to help you learn more about these cool little critters;

http://www.dwarfpuffers.com/intro2.htm
http://www.thetropicaltank.co.uk/Fishindx/puf-trav.htm
http://www.myfishbox.com/xtremeaqua/fish/details.cfm?fid=52
http://www.aquahobby.com/gallery/e_puffer3.php

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Chris Robbins

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