My first lesson

[X the Outsider]

Even though some people say puffers and lions can go together it may not be the best idea. My puffer was picking on my lion last night. So I came home tonight, and my lion is almost stripped of his fins. So what should I do?

[austinsdad]

Not sure what to tell you about those two in a 29g tank since I have no experience with either fish, but that small tank could be the problem. You say folks have told you they can do fine together, but they probably meant in a more suitable environment.

[lando]

Sorry to hear about your troubles. I agree, your tank my be a bit too small for bogh of those fish. They can both be aggressive. I am not sure what you can do about healing your lion. Where are you at in IA? I grew up in Sheldon and went to school in Ames (go Cyclones!)
Welcome to AA!!

[nodoubt471]

you need to get the lion out of there ASAP, wether it be to a larger tank or back to the pet store, both of those fish will not survive long in such a small tank, they are very messy fish which creates a very high bioload. they are also very agressive, which is magnified in such a small tank. i would reccommend melafix as a treatment for the lion, this will both help to heal his wounds and prevent bacterial infections in them.

[quarryshark]

Actually, to be honest a 29 gallon is not apropriate for either of those fish. Depending on the type of puffer you have, many of them require a system of 55-100 gallons or more for the adult size. Even a little tight for a dwarf lion.
Its your call, but I would suggest either a tank upgrade, or return the fish for more appropriate stock.
Not trying to be harsh, just would like you to succeed.

[X the Outsider]

This is what really irks me about this hobby. I've been told those two would be fine in a tank of that size together or by themselves. I know it's no one's fault on here, but now I've got an injured fish who is no longer eating, and a puffer who will probably attack anything else I put in there. I have a Valentini Puffer, but according to every book they only grow to about 5 inches. I'll see what I can do about getting the lion back to health, and maybe a friend will take the puffer.

Thank you all for the advice!

Lando I grew up in Huxley about nine miles south of Ames, and I live in Ankeny now.

[lando]

Off topic, but is the Arc still in Ames?

[X the Outsider]

Surprisingly it is. I haven't been there in about six months though.