What to Look for in a Fish?

Before purchasing any fish, it will be best if you check that the fish swims effortlessly and that it easily maintains its position in the water.

• If possible, check that the fish you wish to purchase is eating food readily.
  
• Fins of freshwater fish should be erect.
  
• The color of the fish should be dense; where a pattern is formed there should be no blurring of adjacent colors.
  
• In species where the color patterns are a special feature, the patterns should conform to the expected "standard".
  

Unhealthy fish
The best way to avoid buying an unhealthy fish is to recognize the outward signs of illness.

• Generally, avoid a fish that sulks in the corner of the tank, although it may be a species that is naturally shy.
  
• An unhealthy fish may swim with its fins held flat against its body.
  
• A fish suffering from an internal ailment may trail colorless excreta.
  
• Don't choose a fish with boils, spots, lumps, open wounds, or split fins.
  
• Any signs of injuries on the fish, should not be purchased. Never buy a fish from a tank that contains dead specimens.