Brand new to salt water, I have a 90 gallon im just about done setting up with live rock and no coral. I really like puffers, although I heard a 90 may not be large enough. Anyone have some input on this? The anticipation is killing me, I spared no expense on this tank already over 3 grand, I wanna do this right. Also I was told I could probably have two show fish, four med sized fish and a few small ones. Does this sound appropriate for this size tank?

Hello!

A 90 gallon tank is a very good size to start with. Any kind of puffer would be pleased with that size. They're like to rest a lot, not a huge swimmers like tangs. I've had a porcupine for 2.5 years in my 55 gallon tank, and he was about 8" when he died. He might died in happiness, I don't know:-) Anyways.. I wouldn't worry about to put any puffer in a 90 gallon set up. In my opinion you can have as many fish as you want, in case you have enough water movement and/or circulation. ( powerheads, filters etc..) Plus you have to be very serious about maintance. For example. You have 2 tangs a puffer and 2 clowns in a 90 gallon. With one good filter system ( designed for 90 G) a protein skimmer, and a 15-20 % water change every 2 weeks you're good to go. Now you have 2 tangs, 2 angels, 1 puffer, 3 clowns, a lawnmower blennie, and a goby.(or maybe even more) It's quite few, but not worry. You can set up an extra filter, and power heads inside your tank, and i'd recommend a 10-15 % water change every week. More fish. more waste it is a fact. If you have only fishes and live rocks in your system try not go over 40-50ppm of nitrate level. If you go over it, it will be very hard to reduce the level. Been there done that. Hope my answer was helpful for you.

Regards,
Sonny