How often to dwarf puffers puff?

okiemavis

I've read several different reports. Some people say they puff up at every feeding time when they get excited. Some say it is dangerous and rarely happens. Anyone know?[/i]

It'sJames

I've never seen my 2 DPs puff.... They've been pretty stressed out at times too. I'm kind of wondering the same thing also. I've heard it's bad for them, and will kill them, but then other people say it's only dangerous if they suck in air. I was personally leaning toward the idea that's puffing is ok, as long as they're fully submerged so they can't suck in any air, but I could be wrong.

Falina

Puffing is a defence mechanism and used when they feel threatened to make them appear bigger and more difficult to eat. They generally won't do it unless stressed. It's a good thing if you've never seen them do it. :)

okiemavis

I was trolling DwarfPuffers.com and seemed to answer my own question. Apparently how often they puff up depends a lot on their personality, and how jumpy they are. Most of the fish more prone to puffing tend to die in transit- a situation where puffing can be very dangerous. If you get a fish who was bred by a friend, or breed your own, you're a lot more likely to get ones who puff up more often.