Feather Duster?

[ROMADS]

I have 1 feather Duster, and yesterday he shedded his feathers off. I have read that this is normal and will grow back in 2 weeks. My problem is My Puffer has decided to attack it. Any suggestions? It's kind of weird. Thanks

[Thunderkat]

I would move the feather duster away from the puffer. When I lived in hawaii and would stand watch overnight on the sub I would watch puffers come by and clean pier pilings clean, including feather dusters. Those things ate anything that was nailed down or too slow to get away. I imagine different species act differently but if it were me I would move the feather duster to a safer spot like a fuge or sump.

[bigdscobra]

Decided to attack the feathers that came off or the rest of the duster?? This is normal for the feathers to come off I have 3 large ones and they do it ever so often and they grow back with in a couple of weeks. If the puffer is attacking the rest of the duster maybe move it to were he cant attack it anymore.

[ROMADS]

Yeah the Puffer- goes after the actual worm. I think the worm is looking for food across the sand. I have a 125 gallon I will try to move it, I don't think there is any safe spot for him. Also should I take out the remains of his feathers? Thanks

[bigdscobra]

I dont think the worm is actually looking for food but going across the sand to build up the outer casing that it lives in, they use stuff on the rocks or in the sand to make it. It wouldent hurt to take the remains of his feathers out.

[ROMADS]

Thanks for the help. I will move him and hope for the best. Here are some pic's sorry they are blurry though.

[bigdscobra]

You may also want to feed the puffer so he wont be looking for something to eat.

[cbianco]

Its kinda funny that I come across this post. Just yesterday (10/19) one of my feather dusters shed their feathers. I know that the feather will grow back but atleast now, after reading this forum I know it should only take a couple of weeks. I guess you learn something new everyday!

Thanks for the unintentional info!

Christopher

[CD]

I know this is kind of a late response, but it is not a "normal" occurance for feather dusters to drop their feathery heads...they do this when they are stressed (whether it be water quality or a tankmate pestering it). It takes a lot of energy for the worm to grow another head back, and as I have read, they will generally only do this aprox. three times before dying. Definitely move the FD to your 'fuge. It will be very happy there, and feel safe and secure.

W. :)