Are Puffer Fish shy at first?

[tonynader]

I just bought a porcupine puffer yesterday and was wondering why all he does is lay on the sand bed and occasionally swim around. Also hasnt accpeted food yet. Just wondering if they are shy at first. Any thoughts would be great, thanks.

 

[beth]

All fish are shy at first. Shy and highly stressed. You will be doing good to reduce the fish's stress as much as you can by offering quality food and a good living environment. Puffers are one of the best fish pets in the hobby.

 

[tonynader]

yes i offered him half shell clam soaked in garlic and all paremiters are great so ya. Guess all i can do is keep tryn and give him time.

 

[deejeff442]

does he have his tail curled up to his body?i have noticed when they are not happy or have some health problems they do this.

 

[tonynader]

no it is not curled up. hes just layin on his stomach on the sand bed. also the lower half of his body is appearing a little white. I mean i just got him yesterday i will be upset if he dies. Great fish

 

[tonynader]

Notice the White part of lower half of body...?

 

[deejeff442]

sometimes it takes some live food for these guys.can you get some ghost shrimp?
what else is in the tank?

 

[tonynader]

Yes i can try some ghost shrimp thats a good idea. I the tank i have 2 maroon clowns fame hawk niger trigger and the puffer of course

 

[deejeff442]

the trigger might get at the shrimp first so i would feed the tank first with the regular food then put a half dozen shrimp in.hopefully he will eat.

 

[tonynader]

ok cool got it. Would you know anything about the whiteness on the lower body half?