How to Catch a Puffer Fish

The puffer fish, sometimes referred to as a globe fish or blow fish, exist in freshwater, brackish and saltwater environments. They are native to parts of South and Central America, Southeast Asia and Africa. The fish are generally docile and social and can make an excellent aquarium pet who recognizes and looks forward to interacting with its owner. If the fish must be caught, either for transfer to a different living environment or for medical care, it should be done with great care. A fish that is stressed when it is caught may puff, a defense reaction that can be detrimental to a puffer fish's over all health.

Things You'll Need

  • Clove oil
  • Soft net
  • Small container
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Add three drops of clove oil per liter of water into the puffer fish's tank. The clove oil will not harm the puffer fish but will act as a sedative to help prevent the puffer fish from blowing up. If you can sink a one liter container in the larger aquarium and isolate the puffer fish, less drops will be required than if you have to treat the whole tank.

    • 2

      Wait three to five minutes before trying to move the fish. This gives the clove time to take effect as a sedative.

    • 3

      Use a small soft cloth net to herd the puffer fish into a shallow container that you hold below the surface of the water to trap the puffer fish.

    • 4

      Lift the container full of water and containing the puffer fish out of the water carefully. You can use the net like a lid to prevent the puffer fish escaping the dish.

    • 5

      Set the small container that you have trapped the puffer fish in on a table and allow the puffer fish to settle down.