Big Box Store Fish

[chrisd73]

Tank is almost done cycling and was going to pick up a couple of small clowns so I don’t lose my bacteria. Was wondering what everyone’s experience is with fish from Petco, etc? Would never plan on anything special or any corals from them, but maybe a hardy clown fish to get things started?

 

[GARRIGA]

Fish aside, not likely losing your bacteria and could just keep adding ammonium chloride periodically which I do regardless to build up the bacterial colony and to stress test how much ammonium chloride I can add before it's not resolved in a few hours.

As for big store fish that all depends on who manages it or better yet order online as those come direct from their supplier who might also be supplying the other LFS.

 

[shakacuz]

petco is hit or miss depending how they maintenance (IF they even do), or quarantine.

use your own discretion on deciding in the particular petco you visit uses good practice

 

[Narideth]

Ultimately it depends on the store itself because they vary wildly with how well they tend to their tanks - and some people will say not to trust them at all.

I personally picked up a fancy black storm clown from petco that was exceedingly healthy, and the only reason I didn't keep his pretty self is because he was getting dangerously beat up by the female I was trying to pair him with.

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

You won't lose your bacteria so no need to hurry

 

[Uncle99]

Tank is almost done cycling and was going to pick up a couple of small clowns so I don’t lose my bacteria. Was wondering what everyone’s experience is with fish from Petco, etc? Would never plan on anything special or any corals from them, but maybe a hardy clown fish to get things started?

Have a look.
Do they look healthy?
Any damage?
Eat?
Colourful?

Then yes!

 

[Asm481]

I only buy quarantined fish for my tank. That's the problem I have with petco as I am unable to quarantine here. Once you add a disease like ich, it's there for a long time.
Your bacteria will be fine. How a bit of fish food in there it'll last a long time.