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www.liveaquaria.com/general/fwcompatibility_chart.cfm<br />

www.ratemyfishtank.com/freshwater_compatibility_tool.php<br />

When you go to purchase your fish, take paper and pen with you and write<br />

down the names of all the fish that appeal to you. By writing down the names<br />

of the fish, you don’t have to remember names (scientific names and even<br />

common names can be a little confusing at times) and can go back and find<br />

certain tanks quite easily. This can be a real advantage if the shop has several<br />

hundred display tanks. When you finish your list, locate your dealer and<br />

check to see whether all the species you chose are compatible with each<br />

other, don’t have unique dietary needs, and don’t have special aquarium<br />

requirements.<br />

Keep an eye out for other compatibility issues. For example, if you buy a convict<br />

cichlid and a guppy, you will probably find the convict alone and well fed<br />

in the morning.<br />

Quick reminders:<br />

Chapter 9: Purchasing Your Fish<br />

Many shops have little stickers or labels to tell you which species are<br />

compatible and which are not. But not all fish stores offer the customer<br />

this courtesy.<br />

Leave difficult species in the expert hands of experienced hobbyists<br />

who know how to take care of them properly. Start simple so you won’t<br />

be disappointed.<br />

A reputable dealer can answer all your questions about aquarium<br />

requirements and compatibility as well as offer pertinent suggestions of<br />

his own as to which species may be more successful for a beginner.<br />

Have an idea about what type of fish you want to keep before you go, so<br />

that you are not talked into getting something you don’t want.<br />

Don’t be afraid to order fish and supplies from Web sites if you can’t find<br />

what you need locally. Good Web sites offer great deals, a great selection,<br />

and good service.<br />

Make sure you get and keep receipts for everything you purchase just in<br />

case you need to return equipment or you are sold sick fish.<br />

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