Returns & Refunds

Effective date: November 1, 2025

1. Scope

This policy applies to purchases made on tropicalfish.co. It does not cover third party sites we link to, such as Aquarium Co-Op. Their policies apply on their sites.

2. No returns on live animals

We do not accept returns of live fish. Returns create unnecessary risk for the animals.

3. Live Arrival Guarantee refunds

If a fish arrives dead on arrival, we will refund the fish price and the portion of shipping attributable to that fish. If the whole order is lost, we will refund the full shipping charge. Refunds are issued to the original payment method or as store credit.

4. Reporting window and proof

You must contact us within one hour of the delivery scan. Include your order number, clear photos or a short video of the fish in the unopened bag. An unboxing video helps us diagnose problems.

5. What is eligible for a refund

  • Dead on arrival fish that meet the reporting rules
  • Orders affected by a documented carrier damage event that results in dead on arrival fish

6. What is not refundable

  • Healthy fish after arrival
  • Losses that occur after acclimation, or due to tank conditions or incompatible tank mates
  • Missed delivery attempts, refusal of delivery, incorrect or incomplete addresses
  • Extreme weather when a weather hold was advised
  • Color, size, pattern, or sex variation, photos show typical form and variation is normal

7. Replacements

Our default remedy is a refund. If stock is available, we may offer a replacement by mutual agreement. Shipping timing for replacements will be set to protect animal welfare.

8. Order changes and cancellations

We cannot guarantee cancellations or substitutions once an order is placed, orders may move into preparation quickly. Once packed, an order cannot be changed or canceled.

9. How to start a claim

Email info@tropicalfish.co within one hour of the delivery scan. Include:

  • Order number
  • Photos or a short video of any dead fish, taken before opening the bag
  • Optional unboxing video if available

Keep the fish and packing materials until we confirm the claim.

10. Processing time

Approved refunds are submitted within three to five business days. Your bank or card issuer may take additional time to post the credit.

11. Third party purchases

If you purchase supplies on a partner site such as Aquarium Co-Op, their returns and refunds policy applies. Contact that seller directly.

12. Contact

Questions about a return or refund, email info@tropicalfish.co.