With the uncertainty surrounding the future of Live Aquaria, I wondered what other reputable sources of fish are available for hobbyists? While I’m a huge proponent of shopping locally and supporting your LFS, there’s definitely a need for an online supplier: for areas that lack strong local fish stores and for those times when you just need fish that aren’t available locally. But who can you trust when ordering from a faceless online storefront?
If you don’t immediately recognize his name, I can assure you that you’ve felt his impact in the industry. Eric Cohen founded one of the largest wholesale suppliers in the U.S.; one that likely supplies your local fish store. Sea Dwelling Creatures has been supplying fish to stores for decades. Eric was also the Technical Director for a popular TV show that you may have heard of: Tanked. Yep, he was the guy that shopped fish with Brett and Wayde in three seasons of the show. He also advised the producers on proper fish identification and making sure that only healthy fish were aired.
He also owns a drygoods manufacturer, Blue Life USA. You’ve likely seen these products at your LFS too. From popular products such as Clear Fx Pro and Safety Stop to staples like filter socks and bulkheads.
Last last year, Eric decided that there was a gap in the online retail fish market and opened TankStop. They offer a wide array of fish and corals as well as live rock. But isn’t this a conflict of interest since he owns a fish wholesale business too? Well, Eric sold his shares in SDC to focus on Tank Stop and Blue Life USA, so any concerns of conflict can be put to bed. Speaking to Eric, he told me he personally packs each and every order, so he can make sure you’re getting the best of what he has to offer. I couldn’t imagine doing that, not that I’m qualified to pack a fish anyway. I remember Jake saw me trying to bag a fish once and he pushed me aside and took over! I hope Eric is better than I am in the bagging department. Knowing that the owner, a pioneer in the reefing industry, is picking my fish and packing my order makes me feel all warm and fuzzy. You know exactly who’s responsible for your fish, so no excuses!
Browsing through tankstop.com I was surprised to see Australian live rock! This stuff looks amazing and reminds me of the Marshall Islands rock that was available for a short time. It’s light, porous, and full of colour. There’s also branching rock too. If you remember the branching rock from Tonga from years back, you know how cool this stuff is to work with. At $30-$35 per pound plus shipping, it certainly tops the premium rock category, but I’m betting if you run the numbers volumetrically, the price will be very competitive.
If you place an order, leave a comment in the notes section for free merch per RB and let me know what you get.
