Top Tips for Selecting Healthy Fish from Your Local Aquarium Shop

Pooja Blessings
12 hours ago
3 min read

Choosing fish for your aquarium can be exciting, but picking healthy fish is crucial for a thriving tank. Many beginners and even experienced hobbyists face challenges when selecting fish that will adapt well and stay healthy. This guide offers practical advice to help you identify strong, vibrant fish and avoid common pitfalls at aquarium shops.

Close-up view of colorful tropical fish swimming in a clear aquarium tank — Bright tropical fish swimming in a clean aquarium

Look for Clear Signs of Health

When you first approach the fish tanks, focus on the fish’s appearance and behavior. Healthy fish show several clear signs:

Bright, consistent colors: Dull or faded colors can indicate stress or illness.
Clear eyes: Cloudy or bulging eyes are red flags.
Smooth, intact fins: Torn or ragged fins suggest injury or disease.
Active swimming: Healthy fish swim steadily and respond to movement outside the tank.
No visible spots or lesions: White spots, red marks, or fuzzy patches often mean parasites or infections.

Spend a few minutes observing the fish before making a choice. Fish that hide constantly or float near the surface may be unwell.

Check the Aquarium Conditions

The environment in the shop’s tanks affects fish health. Look for these factors:

Clean water: Water should be clear, without cloudiness or debris.
Proper filtration: Good filtration keeps water quality high and reduces stress.
Stable temperature: Fish need consistent temperatures suited to their species.
Adequate space: Overcrowded tanks increase disease risk and stress.
Healthy tank mates: Aggressive or sick fish in the same tank can harm others.

If the tanks look dirty or poorly maintained, it’s best to avoid buying fish from that shop.

Ask Questions About the Fish’s History

Don’t hesitate to talk to the staff. A knowledgeable and honest aquarium shop employee can provide valuable information:

How long have the fish been in the tank?
Where did the fish come from (wild-caught or bred in captivity)?
What diet do they follow?
Have the fish shown any signs of illness recently?
What quarantine procedures does the shop use?

Good shops often quarantine new arrivals to prevent disease spread. If the staff cannot answer basic questions, consider shopping elsewhere.

Eye-level view of a well-maintained aquarium tank with healthy fish and aquatic plants — Well-maintained aquarium with healthy fish and plants

Observe Fish Behavior in the Tank

Behavior reveals a lot about fish health and temperament:

Swimming patterns: Fish should swim smoothly and not gasp at the surface.
Social interaction: Some species are social and should be seen interacting with others.
Feeding response: Fish that eagerly eat when food is offered are usually healthy.
Avoid lethargy: Fish that sit motionless or hide excessively may be sick.

If possible, watch the fish during feeding time to see how they behave.

Consider the Species and Your Aquarium Setup

Matching fish species to your tank conditions is essential. Some species require specific water parameters, tank sizes, or companions. Research the species you want before buying:

Water temperature needs: Tropical fish need warmer water than cold-water species.
Tank size requirements: Larger fish or active swimmers need more space.
Compatibility: Some fish are aggressive or territorial and may not mix well with others.
Dietary needs: Ensure you can provide the right food.