FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Ordering and availability

How often do you restock?

Stock changes frequently. If an item becomes unavailable after you order, we will contact you to choose a replacement or cancel that item.

Can I request a specific fish size or sex?

You can add preferences in the order notes. We will do our best when inventory allows, but size and sex are not guaranteed.

Can you hold fish for me?

Short holds may be possible. Add a note at checkout or email us before ordering. Long holds are not available.

Payment and checkout

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept standard online payment methods during checkout. Your payment details are processed by our payment partners, not stored by us.

Do you charge sales tax?

Yes, where required by law. Taxes appear at checkout.

Shipping

Where do you ship?

We currently ship to the contiguous United States.

When do you ship live fish?

We ship on Monday and Wednesday. This protects animal welfare and reduces delays.

How are fish packed?

Fish are bagged with oxygen, insulated, and packed with heat or cold packs as needed. We may place weather holds when conditions require it.

Can you ship to a carrier hold location?

Yes. Many customers prefer a hold for pickup during temperature extremes. Add the request in your order notes.

How do I track my order?

You will receive a tracking link by email when your order ships.

Live Arrival Guarantee and DOA claims

Do you guarantee live arrival?

Yes. Live arrival is guaranteed when the conditions below are met.

  1. You are present for the first delivery attempt, or you pick up a hold package the same day it arrives.
  2. You contact us within one hour of the delivery scan with your order number and clear photos or a short video of any fish that arrived dead.
  3. An unboxing video helps us diagnose problems.
  4. Delivery day temperatures are within a reasonable range for live shipment. We may place weather holds when needed.
What is the refund for DOA fish?

We refund the fish price and the portion of shipping attributable to that fish. If multiple fish were on the order, shipping is refunded pro rata for the lost item. Refunds go to the original payment method or as store credit.

After arrival care

How should I acclimate my fish?

Please acclimate fish properly and follow the acclimation instructions on our website. Do not release bag water into your tank.

Do you quarantine fish?

Yes. We quarantine every fish for a minimum of two weeks before it is listed for sale. During quarantine we observe behavior and appetite, and use medication when necessary. We do not list a fish until it is eating well, stable, and ready. Healthy fish are the most important thing to us.

Changes, cancellations, and returns

Can I change or cancel my order after placing it?

We cannot guarantee cancellations or substitutions once an order is placed.

Do you accept returns?

We do not accept returns of live fish. Returns create unnecessary risk for the animals. For full details, see our Returns and Refunds Policy.

Fish size, sex, and photos

Will my fish look exactly like the photo?

Photos show typical form and color. Individual fish vary in size, color, sex, and pattern. Juveniles often color up as they mature.

What sizes do you ship?

Most fish are juveniles. Sizes vary by shipment. If you need a specific size, please contact us before ordering at info@tropicalfish.co.

Water parameters and stability

What water parameters do you recommend?

We prefer stability over chasing exact numbers. Match your tank to the fish’s general needs and keep conditions steady. If you are breeding, special parameters may help and we note those on species pages.

Promotions and codes

How do I use a discount code or affiliate code?

Enter the code at checkout. Promotions apply only as stated and may change or end at any time.

Supplies and equipment

Do you sell dry goods?

We do not sell dry goods at this time. We use and trust Aquarium Co-Op products and link to them for supplies.

Contact

How do I reach you?

Email info@tropicalfish.co. Include your order number for faster help.