Attn. All Beginners

[ILuvMyGoldBarb]

Dear Beginner,
Welcome to the wonderful world of AC, and the aquarium hobby. You have found a great community of aquarium keepers who are passionate about this hobby, and who are increasing their knowledge daily. This is truly an amazing hobby with much to learn. That said, each of us must be willing to learn. You have come here seeking advice on how to best care for your new fish or advice on how to best setup your new tank. Please remember, the experience of most members here is measured in years, not days or weeks. some of us have spent 10+ years in this hobby, reading books, periodicals, and online articles about this hobby, as well as gleaning knowledge from fellow hobbyists. We do not give advice from the perspective of someone trying to make money (aka. your local fish store) but rather from the perspective of passionate hobbyists. Also, please understand that we are not going to lie to you or intentionally steer you in the wrong direction. We all have successful tanks, some with multiple successful tanks in many different niches of the hobby. If we advise you against a given course of action, we do so with the best interest of your fish in mind, and with your best interest in mind so that you will not become discouraged.

So, in short, please remember, you are coming here because you do not have the knowledge you need. We are here to impart the knowledge you need and to help you and guide you in the best possible direction. Please heed the advice you are given here, remember, we know more about this hobby than you do, and likely more than your "big box" pet store as well.

Thank you
Sincerely, Concerned Member of Aquatic Community

[sheamurai]

I appreciate the intent behind this post, but don't really appreciate someone posting and speaking for me - that post should not have been signed "The Members of Aquatic Community".

[Lady Hobbs]

Well said. In other words, don't ask for advice from 40 others and then not take it!

sheamurai has a valid point.

[gm72]

Exactly. We have that happen all too often when people come here for advice, don't take it, then come back and ask why all of their fish died.

[mommy1]

I appreciate the intent behind this post, but don't really appreciate someone posting and speaking for me - that post should not have been signed "The Members of Aquatic Community".

I agree, I do appreciate the words, but you are not William and do not speak for this forum nor do you speak for me.

[ILuvMyGoldBarb]

I appreciate the intent behind this post, but don't really appreciate someone posting and speaking for me - that post should not have been signed "The Members of Aquatic Community".

My intent was not to offend anyone. I signed it this way because I expect this is how the vast majority of members here feel. If this is a problem then it can be changed.

[Lady Hobbs]

My thing is with the stocking. Buying the wrong fish then coming here for advice is one thing. But I don't understand it when people come here and ask if a whale will work in their tank, you tell them no it will not, so they run out and buy a whale anyway.

It makes you want to head-bang your monitor.

[mommy1]

It is not that I don't agree with your post GB. Every time I help a new member get their tank started or an older member solve an issue they are having I am proving that I do agree. My posts and I speak for myself, and William speaks for this forum, and you should speak for yourself.

[ILuvMyGoldBarb]

I changed the way I signed it. I never accused you of not agreeing with it the post. I simply stated that if people had a problem with the way I signed it, I would change it, and I did. End of story, no need to keep going with it.

[sheamurai]

thanks for the edit, much appreciated.