Where to buy pet fish

Fish are great pets as they require little attention, but they are a great source of entertainment or a brilliant focal point in any room. Once a tank is functioning, fish are pretty much self-reliant with just the occassional filter change and water check. This article looks at where to buy pet fish.

Choosing the right fish

There are three main types of fish that live in different climates. As such, you need to prepare the tank so that it best suits the type of fish about to be purchased. Cold water These types of fish do not need any kind of heating system. They simply need a pump or filtration system. Goldfish is a prime example of these types of fish and can be kept both in a tank or in a pond. Fish ponds tend to need pumps as well to keep the water fresh. Tropical These fish come in a variety of species, each requiring a different tank set-up. The ideal temparature required for every species differs slightly. So, it is best to choose a temperature for the tank and buy fish based around that. Salt water These types of fish are not recommended for beginners with no prior fish-keeping knowledge as a synthetic salt water eco-system needs to be established in the tank before adding any fish. Saltwater fish requires the most supervision, but the reward comes from an amazingly colourful fish display.

Purchasing fish

Pet stores Depending entirely on the pet store, some carry fish while others do not. Caring for the tanks and getting a good supply is an expensive process. So, more independent stores are opting away from carrying tropical fish. Cold water fish are more common in independent pet stores. Fish stores There is often at least, one store within a town that supplies fish, usually alongside lizards and terrariums as well. When looking for these stores, look for aquarium or aquatic supplies. This usually indicates a store that carries fish. Pets supermarket These types of stores are large shops like Pets at Home and Jollyes. They tend to have stores located up and down the country and stock a good selection of tropical and freshwater fish, along with all the supplies which are needed for setting up a tank. Pets online Although, very rarely, you can actually buy fish over the internet and have them delivered to your door. Discountfish.co.uk and Directtropicals.co.uk are two companies that offer this service. Friendly advice Although, fish are lower-maintenance pets as compared to mammals, they still need correct care and attention. Always read up before keeping fish as pets or seek help from an informed sales person.