"Classic" Cichlids?

[VRWC]

good idea, and tried this approach when I was trying to find acaras, but the stores I went to either wouldn't commit to placing the order, or took way to long to do it.

for example, I waited months for gymnos at my LFS, but only a few days when I ordered them on-line ...

I also paid a lot more on-line, so you weigh expedience against expense ...

not to mention, most LFS's dont know what they have/sell, dont know latin names & have yet to figure out how to spell/use their label maker correctly.

 

[_Jessica_]

good idea, and tried this approach when I was trying to find acaras, but the stores I went to either wouldn't commit to placing the order, or took way to long to do it.

for example, I waited months for gymnos at my LFS, but only a few days when I ordered them on-line ...

I also paid a lot more on-line, so you weigh expedience against expense ...

This is true...but sometimes the timing sucks too . I have a guy looking for festae, a lemon oscar, and a dovii. Two months ago, I visited my wholesaler and spotted all three at once...now I can't find any of those anywhere. Same thing, I have a lady wanting any type of freshwater puffer...I'm not even seeing spotted or figure 8's at the moment. Oh, and I had three people looking for a large gar...they were available by the truckload 6 months ago, but I've been out for a while. I finally get one in, call the people one by one, no one wants to pay the higher price tag. A lot of fish are definitely seasonal.

 

[WarrendaFish]

I got 3 LFS that I recommend that stock or would order any of the for mentioned species. All family owned. Stay away from petsmart.
Patnods in New Bedford MA has good selection for fw
Animal Instincts in Fall River MA carries some interesting cichlids and oddballs.
Aqua Life in Providence RI has an excellent selection of Discus, angels, plecos, and wild caught

Guess I'm lucky to have quality LFS in my area. Gotta have knowledge, care about their product ( the livestock especially) and care about their job.

 

[WarrendaFish]

Also seeing a lot of selling of Baby Monsters when customers (not the brightest ones) cant house them as adults. Example: RTC, Arowana (both very popular in the hobby and my area), Gar, Pacu, etc. Lots of selling these monster fish without informing the customer (who should have done their research first anyway). I know one LFS (for mentioned Aqua Life, Providence, RI) who refuses to stock such (what he calls) "tank busters".

Sorry to sidetrack...

My good LFS's usually are informative and caring, although I have witnessed some just trying to make a buck. I have recently seen some of the formentioned species locally sold (chocolate, red devil)