[bigcheif]

I try to buy from our lfs anytime I need something. I want to support them because there are very few places around to buy saltwater fish. I was interested in a dwarf flame angel and was shocked to find out its selling price was 89.00. Do yall think this is a bit steep. I could buy online a lot cheaper, but I have never bought online before. Any thoughts on this 89.00 flaming angel.

[BubbaWPB]

I try to buy from the LFS, too... if they don't get business, they won't be there when I need them. Although I can't say about the price of your flame angel, I can say that for the most part, the LFSs consistently are significantly higher than the online places for most stuff. Sometimes, if you have to pay shipping from the online places, it works out about equal, but other times, it's still cheaper online. The LFS usually isn't a bargain. You're paying for the convenience of seeing the condition of the fish before you get it. Also, some fish don't ship well, and they are not guaranteed for live delivery when ordered online.

I confess that for some items, I order online and skip the LFS. When the LFS doesn't have an item in stock, and it takes twice as long at twice the price for the LFS to order it, I definitely order online (for dry goods).

[showfish]

Wow, that price is high. I bought mine for $39.00. You might try online and save yourself some money.

[bigcheif]

How did you acclimate it when you recieved it by mail. bucket with drip or bag method and how long have u had it. A little scared buying online

[Poseidon]

$89 is high, around here they are usually 50-60. BUT if the market supports $89 why should the LFS sell for less? If the LFS has kept the fish in QT, if the fish is EATING well, and you get to see the fish before hand, then $89 may be a justified price. Lets say the LFS does QT the fish before you even SEE them, lets say they ordered 3 of those flames in and within the first 5 days 2 died.... You see how that works.

Now lets say you go to a LFS that does NOT QT, it orders 3 flames and sells 2 during the first five days, not knowing if they are eating or not... is $89 still a good deal? NO WAY because this LFS is selling unknowns.

I have a few LFS in my area now, and only ONE qts every fish, and their prices are significantly HIGHER, but they are also WAY BUSIER then any other LFS I know. I think people will pay more for a fish that is a proven eater, and already been qt'd for 10 days in hypo, copper, and a UV environment. Wouldn't you?

[The R/C Man]

One thing about ordering online are the high shipping costs for live animals. You also must take into consideration the timing. It is important to be able to get to the shippers dock when it arrives. That will ensure a shorter time in transport. I haven't yet purchased livestock from an online vendor because I like to know the status of it prior to purchase. You are also able to pick the coloration you like the best. With that said, I am planning to purchase some corals (ricordia, zoos and maybe an Arcopora) of specific species that are not locally available. The other reason I would purchase from an online vendor would be for lack of a LFS or one that is ummm, lacking quality control. We have one of those here. The tanks are dirty, the fish are mixed together and many have ick. Everyone that I have talked to that has purchased from him looses fish and other live stock. I can't believe people still go there. Shrug...