Where to Get a Clownfish

The initial purchase is one of the most important moments of clownfish ownership. If you pick out a healthy fish from a reliable source, all other aspects of care are less likely to be problematic in the future.

Although most tropical marine fishes in the aquarium trade are taken from the wild, clownfish are among a handful of species that are also reared in captivity. These captive-raised fish make ideal pets because they don’t undergo the same stress that a wild-caught fish does upon capture, removal from its natural habitat, transit, and sale.

Captive-raised clownfish are already used to aquarium life and having people take care of them. They’re also typically much younger than wild-caught clownfish—usually less than a year old upon purchase. You shouldn’t have a problem finding a tank-raised clownfish at your local dealer, and you should choose one over a wild-caught specimen whenever possible.

There are many different ways to buy fish. You can buy:

The large chain pet stores usually carry more common species, whereas independent local fish stores carry both common and more exotic species. If neither have what you’re looking for, you can search the internet for fish breeders and dealers.

Large chain pet stores have sections devoted to fish supplies and have some fish available for purchase. They usually carry the most common freshwater and saltwater species found in the aquarium trade. For beginners, they’re good places to visit to see in person what the most popular fish actually look like. If you buy a fish from a chain store, you can take it home that day.

Local fish stores are independent businesses that usually stock the same basic fish that large chains carry, as well as more exotic species. You may be able to find fish that you never thought you’d see in local fish stores. Such stores aren’t as common as large chains, though, so search in the phone book or on the internet to locate one. As with large chains, if you buy a fish from a local store, you can take it home that day.

If a large chain or local fish store doesn’t have the fish you want, search online for internet dealers. These businesses are located throughout the country, and the fish offered for sale can be either tank raised or wild caught.

Before you make a purchase, research dealers that interest you to make sure that they’re reputable. If you buy a fish online, you’ll likely have to pay additional shipping charges to ensure speedy delivery.

Aquarium clubs and organizations typically have regularly scheduled meetings, and at these gatherings you can sometimes find fish available at auction. Search on the internet for the club nearest you.

Fish breeders have their own fish spawn, which they sell to fish stores and clubs, and sometimes directly to individuals. If you choose to buy a fish from a breeder, find a reputable one through an aquarium club or organization, or research fish breeders on the internet.