Here's what to look for in a healthy tropical fish:
- Swims effortlessly and is as active as it should be.
- Fins are straight and intact (not frayed, clamped close to the body or rotting etc.)
- Clear, smooth eyes that are a normal size
- Bright colors (if it's supposed to be colorful) on body and no discoloration
- Smooth skin/scales, no weird blisters or bumps or scales that protrude like a pinecone
- No ugly white/red/yellow/gray "blemishes" or "specks" on body
- Gills are NOT red/inflamed/protruding
- Belly is full but not about to explode (unless fish is pregnant)
- New fish will actively avoid capture, not be completely lifeless as if it's "giving up"
- Fish should be breathing easily and not gasping through mouth
- Body is straight and spine is not curved
- There's no external injuries, visible parasites/worms, bleeding
- Fish will eagerly seek and DEVOUR food like a little piggy
At the Fish Store...
- Try not to buy fish from tanks where the fish look sluggish and there are dead bodies in them
- If you buy fish of different species, keep them in separate bags so they do not resort to aggression while they crammed into such a tiny bag.
- Observe to see if different nets are used for each tank, or that the net is disinfected after use to prevent cross-contamination.
- Make sure there's plenty of air in the transport bag, and that the air is from the room, not blown through the salesperson's mouth (the air he/she respires has little oxygen)
- Check all fish for signs of illness (see above) before taking them home.
- Inquire about the store's return policy regarding fish/equipment.
- Keep the bag(s) of fish in a dark bag to calm them down (they'll think it's night time)
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