I went to the lfs to check out their new shipment of fish. They had received a large assortment of painted mollies. I can see why they carry them, people buy them like there is no tomorrow. Anyway, looks like it may be a demand problem, not a supply problem. Kind of like illegal drugs, their wouldn't be a supply if there wasn't such a demand.
I can tell you one thing, the lfs certainly doesn't offer information. I watched a person buy ten fish from ten different tanks and a couple of dwarf frogs. After they left, I asked the saleperson what type of tank they have, he stated, "I have no idea, I just wanted to sell the fish". At least he was being honest.
Maybe I am too hard on Wallyworld and Petsmart, maybe they aren't much different than the independent local owner. I know one thing, if the lfs warned or educated everyone, they would go out of business, then we would be left with mail order and the big boys. I sure like being able to order thru my lfs, something I can't do at the corporate chains.
Thanks for reading my ramble. I've decided for now to support my lfs and to step off of my soap box issue for now...