Possible tank mates for dwarf puffer

[TKOS]

In a small tank, 10 gallons or under, I am assuming that there aren't any really good tank mates for dwarf puffers but I thought I would ask. Of course the fish store says cories and barbs are good, but from what I have seen written here cories get there fins eaten and most barbs like to be in groups to big for a smaller setup. Anyone come across anything that does mix well?

Thanks

 

[rjl420]

puffers temperments vary between individuals, so there is no clear cut choise when choosing tankmates.

I have kept dwarfs successfully with cories (no problems, but I've heard of problems from others) tetras, rasboras and even gouramis. best thing to do is keep an eye on them and see how it goes. as a rule of thumb it's best to stay away from fish with long fins like bettas and angels. gouramis are also not recommended, but I did keep 2 dwarfs with my puffers for several months before I broke them up and switched tanks.

edit: you know I missed the key part of this thread... the 10 gallon tank size. I would propose the following setup:

10 gallon tank heavily planted with a few peices of driftwood to break up sight lines

3 or 4 dwarf puffers (1m, 2-3f)
3 ottos or 3 dwarf cories

or

still heavily planted but driftwood not as neccessary
2 dwarf puffer (2f or 1m, 1f)
3 neons or similar small tera (<1")
3 cories or ottos

 

[Pufferpunk]

Neons (& other schooling fish) like to be in groups of 6 or more. Actually corys like groups too. I think you could try corys & just be prepared to move or return them if they get chewed up. A dwarf form of pleco should be ok too.

 

[isaac newton]

It is very important to have heavy planted tank if you plan to have community fish with them.. My dwarfs tend to hunt around the leaves looking for snails; they spend more time doing that then nipping.... If your tank is very open, your asking for trouble.. Ive been fortounate keep guppies with mine..

p.s. you chose a good puffer species.. Many others require much work, these are one of the most hardy puffers out there.