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Questions to ask a seller

What to ask before you pay anything. A careful seller will be glad you asked, and will have questions for you too.

Saltwater fish and invertebrates: what to ask

  1. Was it aquacultured, or collected from the wild?
  2. How long have you had it, and is it eating prepared food?
  3. What salinity and temperature is it kept at?
  4. Is it safe with corals and other invertebrates?
  5. What is it kept with, and what shouldn't it be kept with?
  6. Has it been quarantined or treated for anything?
  7. How do you pack and ship, and what happens if it arrives dead?

Whatever the animal

  1. Can I see the animal, and where it's kept, in person or on a live video call?
  2. Can I have copies of its health records, and the name of your vet?
  3. Is there a written contract, and can I read it before I pay a deposit?
  4. What happens if it falls ill in the first weeks, or it doesn't work out?
  5. How do you take payment, and is the deposit refundable?
  6. Can I contact you with questions after it comes home?
  7. Can I speak to someone who has had an animal from you?

Be wary of a seller who won't answer, won't let you see the animal (in person or on a live video call), or wants payment by gift card, wire or e-transfer to someone else's name.

Staying safe: how to spot a scamCheck a contract before you sign