I use to go into tropical fish shops and marvel at the inhabitants - too frightened to ask the "expert" what all the different fish were and what you need to do to start...there is nothing like feeling small in front of an expert. Or worse still being told rubbish by a so called expert!
You really need to take your time researching questions to ask before getting to the store. There are lots of aquarium stores with staff that know very little about fish, so don't base your decision on their advice alone...and make sure you take a close look at the fish yourself.
Below are some basic guidelines to consider when buying new fish:
o How big does the fish get?
o It may be small now, but will it eat all of them when it is adult?
o Is it a territorial - or will it be happier in a group?
o Will it get along with the current fish in your tank?
o Is your tank at the right temperature?
o Are your water conditions correct?
o Can you supply the right food for it?
Things to ask and look out for:
o Ask where the fish originally came from, the answer usually gives you an idea of how much the staff actually know!
o Does the store have a quarantine tank, if not be wary - or ask where there quarantine tank is. Generally this indicates that the fish are being cared for...
o Look at the aquarium plants, are they well kept?
o Ensure they catch the fish that you want, or better still catch it yourself!
Remember that the key to success is to keep your tank in balance giving happy, stress-free fish, so don't be tempted into buying an incompatible species jut because you think it's attractive - you'll definitely regret it.
Don't try to add too many fish to your tank at once - and always check that the fish are healthy before you buy them. Sometimes it can be difficult to be patient, particularly if the dealer has a species of fish that you really want but TAKE YOUR TIME!
Pete owns Tropical Fish Advice which is a resource dedicated to helping individuals interested in all types of Tropical Fish
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