Habitat

Question
I have an algae eater that has grown very large - about 10" long.  It is very big for my 20 gallon tank, and I need to do something with this fish.  Can I release it into a pond or is there something else better I can do with it?  We are moving shortly and I would like to make sure this fish has a more comfortable living environment.

Answer
Nooooo, please do not release it into the wild.  You can upset the eco-system terribly!

I would suggest that you advertise this fish on your area's Craigslist.  This is how I find homes for my "babies" that I breed and they go REAL fast!  Unfortunately, many people do not read up on these things to find out how big they really do get. I would suggest you research any fish you get in the future to find out their needs and how big they can grow to.  We have a pleco that is over 21" at this point, who lives in a 100 gallon aquarium.

You also can talk to your local petshop and see if they are willing to take him off your hands.  But I can almost guarantee you that if you advertise on Craigslist it will go REAL fast.  It only takes a second to sign up and list it.

Whatever you do though, PLEASE do not let it go in any water system. It probably wouldn't survive at this point anyway because of the weather.  IF you cannot find a home for the fish, you can always consider euthanizing it (I hate saying that, but would rather see you euthanize then let go in any ponds, etc.).  You can read on line to find out ways to euthanize a fish.

I hope this gives you some ideas.  Good luck.

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