bring fish home

Question
Hi,
We dont really have a fish store from my town but i'd like to know that if i was to buy fish from out of town for my 10-15 gallon tank what is the longest they can be in the bag? Is 2-5hrs too long to get them in my tank at home?
Thanks

Answer
Hi Kristie,

Fish can live for quite a while in transport bags if they are not exposed to temperature extremes.  You have a small tank so I suspect you will be getting just a few fish.  Make sure your supplier doesn't put more than three (little) fish in a bag. Also make sure they tie off the corners of the bags so they don't suffocate on the trip.

I suggest that you put them (in their bags) in a small styrofoam cooler so the temps remain about the same, and they are not jostled about too much.  When you introduce them into the tank add a product like STRESSCOAT into the tank water to help the transition.  Be certain to float the bags for about 20 minutes in your tank water so the temps equalize.  There shouldn't be a problem if you follow my intructions.  Good luck and have fun!

Michael J.