There are a number of stores when it comes to pet fishes. Choosing one might be a tricky especially for first-timers. This article can definitely help you in choosing the right cichlid store especially for those who are just starting out in cichlid caring.
Choose your preference first
Do you have the time to look around or would you prefer shopping for cichlids online? Ironing up these details at the onset sets the bar on how you would like to approach the selection process. Yes, there are a lot of online cichlid stores that you can take advantage of. Delivery of the pet fish you like to have varies on means and rates.
Do a shortlist of your preferred cichlid specie
Although you might argue that you're planning to ask the best specie from the cichlid store itself, it is still best that you do your own research. You see, sales personnel are trained to close a deal. So, you can't really expect them to highlight the downsides of specific cichlid specie. You can just trust that they will give you quality advice on cichlid care. So, look for the possible cichlid specie that would fit your lifestyle.
Ask around
You can talk to friends whom you know have cichlids or you can log onto credible cichlid forums. There is a big possibility that one cichlid enthusiast there lives in your area and knows a reputable store. Aside from stores, there are also private cichlid breeders you can stumble to. They sometimes have unique collections of cichlids available.
Check the reputation of the store
The Internet brims with more information than you can imagine. Take advantage of it. Search the name of the particular store you have in mind and add the word "review" with the search phrase. You will find that the most popular cichlid shops have the most reviews. This gives you a better chance of checking on the reputation of the store without getting fooled by marketing and sales talk. This step very much applies to those who are planning to shop online.
Visit the store
If this is an old-fashioned store that has a boutique, take the time to drop by and evaluate the presentation. You would easily know if the cichlids there are healthy because they won't look sad. Their scales would also be brighter if they are well-fed. A good store also has complete services and items ranging from food to tank supplies. It would also be bets to deal with stores that have better-trained staffs.
Double-check the rates
Never deal with stores that have unimaginable prices—high or low. There might be something fishy, pun intended, going on. Stick to the ones that offer standard rates. It might be tempting to buy very cheap cichlids but there might be a lot of risks. The fishes might not be healthy and would die after a few days.
Whether you are a first-timer or not, always practice discernment when dealing with cichlid stores. After all, you want only the best, never settle for anything less.
