Aussie Harlequin Tuskfish

[Bobby A.]

I picked up an Australian Harlequin Tusk on Friday. Once it was acclimated and put in the tank it went to the rock work. Last night it was out after the lights went off for a good bit but has yet to come out at all during the day. Also has not eaten yet.... I know its only been a couple of days but is this normal for tusks?

Thanks

 

[Mrbh22]

Interested for more info. Tagging along.

 

[gobolts23]

they can be shy at first. did you QT him? I always treat tusks with prazi pro due to flukes and internal worms.

 

[Bobby A.]

ha no I did not qt him. I know I should but All I have is a 10 gallon for qt and he is about 6 inches. I always feel putting fish that big in such a small tank just creates more stress.... he did seem to have a hard time swimming when first put in and kept "bobbing" at the surface a bit but last night when I watched him swim around he seemed fine. he is in a 150 now.

 

[gobolts23]

i would keep a close eye on him since they can be susceptible to ich and flukes initially.

 

[angelfish7]

I would get at least a 20g or29g minimal for a qt if space is limited. Its just not worth the potential risk and aggravation of not qt a fish.

 

[myram]

Try feeding him fresh scallop or fresh shrimp.........from the seafood section of the local supermarket.

That is all I fed my 150 FOWLR that housed a Clown Trigger, Niger Trigger, Picasso Trigger, Harlequin Tuskfish, Queen Angel, Black Volitan, and a Snowflake Moray.

Sometimes I would even slice it up and put it into vitamins for a little extra benefit.

Steve

 

[gsiegel]

I would not worry (except for the no qt part but you know that already).
I have an aussie tusk that is shy. Has his home under a cave and is more active at night.
Try squid and clam. That is my Tusk's favorite.
Also good to feed meaty foods for those teeth.