How long do fish stores have fish in general?

[wataugachicken]

yeah, not just water adjustment problems, but inbreeding and over-use of hormones. i wouldn't blame the employee too much - almost everyone thinks/is told that neons are hardy and find out the truth too late. home-bred ones are much healthier, but hard to find usually.

 

[Hooked Newbie]

Good thread, gives me an idea for a new one.

A couple things, first since I've gotten hooked (pun intended) into the hobby I've noticed a big difference between "ideal" and reasonable business. If I were to post a thread saying I had 10 Oscars in a 20G tank.... whew! But, the LFSs have to do that to be viable. Granted they use large filtration systems, massive water changes, etc. But it goes to show the difference between the hobby and business.

Also, Walmart has outsourced their fish care. I forget the name of the company, but if you see a problem in one of the stores, mention it to management and they should be able to contact their Rep.

 

[PuppyFluffer]

yeah, not just water adjustment problems, but inbreeding and over-use of hormones. i wouldn't blame the employee too much - almost everyone thinks/is told that neons are hardy and find out the truth too late. home-bred ones are much healthier, but hard to find usually.

Tell me more about inbreeding and the use of hormones. The inbreeding I can understand but I am clueless about the use of hormones.

 

[wataugachicken]

hormones are used to make the fish breed, and also to cause young fish to show adult coloration before they naturally would. better color = better sales.

 

[Lupin]

Tell me more about inbreeding and the use of hormones. The inbreeding I can understand but I am clueless about the use of hormones.

Fish are fed with foods laced with hormones to ensure they change their sexes or improve their coloration (as if their natural coloration isn't satisfying already).