Online Livestock?

[ShooterRick]

I have always been skeptical of online livestock. Snails are one thing but fish and coral another. Do you purchase online or just use the online stores as a reference and supply source? Shipping seems very high also. Do you end up paying about the same from a LFS figureing the shipping. Is quality a concern?

[chrisfont23]

No. Shipping is ridiculous unless there is a deal where they are packaging it with something else. I wind up spending 2-4 times as much with the product at the mercy of the PO or a local carrier. Plus it's frigging freezing up here in New York, so unless the fish are in a winter coat, I wouldn't risk it.

Going to the LFS is so much better IMO. First, I can see the fish I want. I can inspect for disease or other issues. Next, I can build a relationship with the owner too, which may benefit both over time. I have already gotten some sweet deals from South Shore Tropicals in Lindenhurst NY and gotten to know the guys too. The advice exchange is another win. It's nice to "hear" from people too. Finally, it's an excuse to get out of the house, esp in the winter.

So again, no - for all those reasons, I go to my LFS.

Disclaimer - Petco is not an LFS

[chavez]

I agree with chris for the most part. I have ordered online quite a bit and have had 0 problems. I'v ordered corals fish dry goods live phytoplankton and other parts as well. I never pay more than 5-10$ for shipping but i also belong to a local group and we have 30-40 people ordering at the same time so we split the shipping cost. That is the only way you can make it worth while, i have had a couple DOA arrivals and they always credit me for it no questions asked and when we place our next order i get almost double what i had ordered the first time if its corals and if its fish then they normally give me a couple of hermits or snails for free or a cleaner shrimp which just shows they are not there to rip you off. We order from J&L aquatics out of BC canada, the box of water from ontario, and sir fragalot all really good stores IMO.

The only bad part is you cant actually see what you buy till you get it, besides the pic that's on their site!