Tip of the Day – 8/25/2011

Despite being one of the few tools to capture fish out of aquariums, nets can do a significant amount of damage. The tiny holes of the net can get caught on the gill covers, fins, and mouth of the fish, causing quite a bit of tissue injury when the fish tries to escape. The use of nets leads to acute stress that can last for days, and the fish could even die from the encounter. Luckily, there are alternatives. Instead of using nets, try using a fish trap or a plastic bag. Placing food in the containers will help entice the fish, but chances are you’ll catch other fish in the aquarium before the fish you want out.