LFS question...

[YJCoach]

Im eyeing a beautiful Aro for my 200 Gallon tank at a local store. They have two Silvers about 8" housed in two different tanks. Last week they were both in the same tank but now they were moved. One has a bloated stomach which I dont think Ill be purchasing, the other looks very healthy.

My question is before I purchase him, can I ask them to feed him in front of me so I know he eats?

I dont know if this is considered rude, or if they will tell me that its not his eating time. Before I drop a chunk of my hard earned money, I want to make sure my investment is eating normally.

Does anyone else do this before they buy fish?

Thanks in advance....

Coach

[Crispy]

I frequently ask to see fish eat before I buy. especially expensive fish or 'hard to feed' species (ie, eels/rays). I would be cautious if they are feeding feeders or are reluctant to feed the fish.

[Strider199]

Your lfs should not be opposed to feeding your future purchase. They may tell you the subject has already been fed but just ask them for their feeding schedule and return another day just before it's feeding time.

[leaveittoweaver]

I work for a local pet store with fish and no one who works at one should be offended by that. I've had customers ask about to see this before. I also generally show newer people to fish keeping the amount to feed their fish since overfeeding is such a problem.

Definitely a logical thing to want to see :)