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 colour of the fish should be dense; where a pattern is formed there should be no blurring of adjacent colours.

In species where the colour patterns are a special feature, the patterns should conform to the expected "standard".

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

Generally, avoid a fish that sulks in the corner of the tank, althought 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 colourless 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.

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