When most people look at a saltwater aquarium, the first thing they notice are the fish. Fish of all shapes, sizes, colors, styles, and personalities. However, one of the most devastating experiences for a tropical fish lover is purchasing fish riddled with disease that die shortly after being introduced to their new home. To avoid this, it's crucial to stock your aquarium with healthy fish from reputable sources. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do that, along with additional tips for maintaining a thriving saltwater aquarium.
Choosing the Right Pet Store
Reputation Matters
The odds of purchasing healthy fish increase significantly when you buy from a reputable pet store. If you walk into a store that sells fish for private aquariums and are immediately overwhelmed by the odor of rotting seafood, turn around and walk away. While a slight musty scent is normal, a strong odor indicates that the store may not prioritize the care of their animals as they should.
Cleanliness and Maintenance
Take a good look at the store's aquariums. The tanks should be clean, and the water should be clear. Don’t be alarmed if you see a tank with a sign indicating that the fish inside are not for sale; this often means the store is quarantining new or sick fish.
Staff Interaction
The staff should be friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. If the store is having a slow period, employees should be cleaning tanks or feeding fish. When catching a fish, handlers should use two nets to corner the fish, minimizing unnecessary stress. Staff members should be able to provide helpful and informative advice about fish care.
Inspecting the Fish
Physical Condition
When shopping for tropical fish, take your time to carefully study their physical condition. Pay attention to their eyes, fins, mouths, scales, and abdomens. The fish should look healthy, without any visible signs of disease or distress.
Behavior
Put your hand as close to the glass as you can without touching it. Healthy fish should either swim towards your hand, looking for food, or dart for cover. If a fish doesn’t react or seems lethargic, it may not be healthy and is best avoided.
Dead Fish Rule of Thumb
If you see more than three dead fish in a single tank, consider shopping somewhere else. While dead fish happen and stores can be busy, seeing too many dead fish is a red flag indicating potential neglect or poor water quality.
Compatibility and Diet
Research Before Purchase
Before you go shopping for tropical fish, gather a little knowledge. Ensure that the fish you purchase are compatible with each other. Know what kind of food they require. Predatory fish generally need frozen or live bait, and if you choose to own such fish, you must have a way of keeping that food alive, which often means a separate tank.
Planning for Coral
If you plan to add coral to your saltwater aquarium in the future, think ahead and purchase fish that are compatible with coral. Not all fish coexist well with coral, so this foresight will save you time and trouble down the line.
Conclusion
Stocking your saltwater aquarium with tropical fish requires careful consideration and planning. By choosing a reputable pet store, inspecting the fish thoroughly, and ensuring compatibility, you can create a vibrant and healthy aquarium. Remember, the key to a successful saltwater aquarium is not just the beauty of the fish, but their health and well-being. With the right approach, you can enjoy a thriving underwater ecosystem in your home.
