Do Puffer Fish Die After They Puff Up?
Puffer fish can often be known as porcupine fish, blowfish, or even balloonfish. They are commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, and these unique fish are known for their strange ability to puff up with water.
Unfortunately, the answer to the question of do puffer fish die after they puff up is yes. Despite the efforts of the fish to protect themselves, in some cases when they puff up they could possibly rupture internal organs and even end up dying.
When they puff themselves up, they actually fill their stomachs with water in order to increase their size by up to two and a half times their original size. The amount of water varies from species to species, and unfortunately, it can be fatal for them.
When this happens, they have to expel the water from their stomachs in order to return to their original size. If they are unable to expel the water due to injury or if the pH level of the water is too severe, then it is likely that the fish will not survive.
Here are some of the potential dangers of puffer fish puffing up and the ways to keep them safe:
Potential Dangers
- Water that is too acidic or basic in pH level
- Injuries while puffing up
- Injuries due to predators
- Excessive puffing up due to anxiety
- Injuries due to overcrowding in the tank
Safety Measures To Take
- Maintain water pH levels between 7.0 and 8.0
- Keep the tank free from sharp objects which can injure the fish
- Provide hiding places for the fish to retreat to when scared
- Ensure the tank is not overcrowded with too many fish
- Only handle puffer fish with sterile gloves to prevent bacterial transfer
These safety measures should be taken to prevent the fish from puffing up too much, as it can often result in death. However, it is important to remember that puffer fish are incredibly interesting creatures and they should be appreciated for their beauty.
