Dwarf Puffer Swimming Erratically - Problem?

[16wbrinkley]

I recently got this guy and set up a 10 gal for him. I have only had him 5 days. He was doing great, awesome appetite (bloodworms), like a 1" long puppy with fins. Now he's swimming very erratically. I am fixing to do a quarter water change to see if that changes things.

pH is around 7, temp is 78F, slightly hard, etc.......

Any thoughts?

 

[Matt68005]

Looks like a bad bacterial infection. Doubt he'll make it. I would take back and get another if its not too late, or simply euthanize.

 

[jessipanda]

It could also be the water parameters. When you setup this tank, did you cycle it before adding the puffer? If not, you should read up on the nitrification cycle fish tanks go through and their affects on fish. Also, make sure you do your research on any fish before buying. Some “freshwater” puffers actually need brackish water to survive.

If you don't have one already, I highly recommend buying an API water test kit to keep track of the parameters. It's much more accurate than the strips.

Good luck. I hope your fish puppy pulls through. :\