Source Aquatics In-Store Livestock Policy

At Source Aquatics, the health and well-being of our fish, invertebrates, and aquatic plants is our top priority. We ensure that every animal in our store is healthy, properly cared for, and ready for a thriving life in its new home. The following policy outlines our care standards, guarantees, customer responsibilities, and procedures.

1. Livestock Health & Care Standards

All livestock in our store is:

  • Inspected daily for health and wellbeing

  • Maintained in clean, stable, and monitored aquariums

  • Fed high-quality food and supplements

  • Treated promptly if any signs of illness appear

We never knowingly sell unhealthy or compromised animals.

2. In-Store Livestock Guarantee & Returns

We offer a limited in-store guarantee for eligible live fish purchases. To qualify for a return or exchange, the following conditions must be met:

  • Contact us by email first discussing the concern.

  • Do NOT bring the live fish/invertebrates into the store without prior arrangement to do so

  • Livestock must be returned in separate containers with enough oxygen

  • Provide a water sample from your aquarium

  • Submit a photo of your aquarium setup

  • Include the original receipt

  • Requests must be made within 7 days of purchase by email

Eligible returns/exchanges are reimbursed as in-store credit for the full or lesser price. Each fish may only be replaced once, and the guarantee does not apply to replacement fish.

Guarantee Limitations

  • Contingent upon assessment of the water sample and tank photograph

  • Subject to Source Aquatics' discretion

  • Null and void if proper care or attention was not exercised by the customer

  • Does not cover: sale price fish, pond fish, Arowanas, Discus, “L” Plecos, Stingrays, Shrimp, or all marine livestock

3. Holding Livestock for Customers

We may offer short-term holds under the following conditions:

  • Holds are 24 hours maximum, unless otherwise arranged

  • A deposit may be required for special or high-value livestock

  • Livestock showing any signs of illness will not be held or sold

If a customer does not pick up livestock by the agreed-upon time, the animal will be returned to sales tanks and any deposits may be forfeited.

4. Acclimation & Post-Purchase Care

Proper acclimation is essential for livestock health. Upon purchase, we provide guidance on acclimation techniques, stress reduction methods, and/or compatibility with existing tankmates.

We are available to answer questions before and after purchase, but ultimately customers are responsible for properly educating themselves and maintaining proper tank conditions.

5. Compatibility & Tank Requirement Advice

Our staff gladly provides opinions/advice on species compatibility, tank size and equipment requirements, water parameters, feeding habits, and/or special care needs. However, the final decision to purchase rests with the customer. It is up to the customer to educate themselves and learn about this hobby independently of Source Aquatics advice. Source Aquatics is not responsible for aggression, compatibility issues, or the behavior of animals once introduced into your aquarium.

6. Special Orders

For special-order fish, plants, or invertebrates, a deposit may be required, availability is not guaranteed, animals must arrive healthy before being offered for sale. Deposits for special orders are non-refundable should the customer change their mind.

7. Customer Responsibility

By purchasing livestock from Source Aquatics, customers acknowledge responsibility for:

  • Proper tank setup and cycling

  • Maintaining suitable water parameters

  • Choosing appropriate tankmates

  • Correct acclimation procedures

  • Ongoing maintenance and care

  • Self education (i.e., reading, fact checking and learning on your own)

  • Making their own decisions even if different from was advice given

We are here to provide guidance and support, but long-term success depends on proper care at home.

Last Updated: January 2026