Most businesses make their profit on the products that keep the animal alive and not the actual livestock, whether that is a large retail chain or local lfs. Lets face it, aquatic animals other than turtles are still considered novelties by the majority and are not regulated (probably a good thing) as in many domestic or even exotic mammals. There are no codes to live by, but rather set standards interacted between aquarists in how we keep our animals in a positive state of health. There are "good" and "bad" aquatic retail stores alike, both containing uneducated people wanting your money so take the time to educate yourself first in regards to your purchases and understand that no matter how knowledgable or friendly a company is, it is still a business first and foremost. You are not "saving a fish" or any aquatic animal for that matter when a purchase is made, but rather creating a sale notation for future restocking considerations. If you are disgusted with the conditions of a particular store, do not gripe about the purchase because you obviously shouldn't have made the purchase in the first place. Far too many venues exist for someone to bash another company for their faults, yet still making the purchase from them when the consumer made the choice uninhibited. For those whom only have a couple available "brick and mortar" stores in their area, look online (aquatic retailer, ebay, local aquarium club, etc.). The choices are there, make the best of the situation available.
For what it's worth, I have no qualms about buying aquatic animals from a large chain store because I know what to expect. The consumer takes the risk and it is the consumer's responsibility to justify what is right for him/her.
For what it's worth, I have no qualms about buying aquatic animals from a large chain store because I know what to expect. The consumer takes the risk and it is the consumer's responsibility to justify what is right for him/her.