[Wizarwar]

Hello All, I'm new to the marine tank hobby but I have had fresh tanks for quite some time. Like some here I neither have space or the budget to keep a QT up and running 24/7. I do have a LFS that I trust after having developed a relathionship with the owners and observing their techniques with fish keeping/handling. When I purchase a fish from them I always ask that they feed the tank, I don't want a fish that wont take food...most healthy fish will eat whether they are hungry or not. I always watch the fish for it's activity level and how it acts with it's tankmates, no meanies or lazies please. Lethergy is not a good sign. I check the fish for sores, any mild discolorations, smoothness etc. for signs of trauma or disease. Once home, I float the bag for 45 mins. adding my tank water @ a half cup at a time every 10 mins or so. I then pour the water(fish and all) through a net over a bowl till I've netted the fish. I release the fish and watch it for a few days. It has worked out for me ever since I have kept fish. I NEVER pour the water the fish came in...into my tank. Unless the fish has something already 'on board' it works out fine. I think it is imparative to have a store you trust and to examine your purchase thouroughly before buying/adding to your tank. I hope this helps! Mike.