Questions to ask a seller

What to ask before you pay anything. A careful seller will be glad you asked, and will have questions for you too.

Corals: what to ask

Is this frag aquacultured in your tank, or cut from a wild colony?
Is the photo of the exact frag I'll get?
What light and flow is it under now?
What are your tank's alkalinity, calcium and magnesium?
How long since it was cut, and has it healed and started to grow?
Do you dip for pests, and have you had any in your system?
How do you pack and ship, and what happens if it arrives dead?

Whatever the animal

Can I see the animal, and where it's kept, in person or on a live video call?
Can I have copies of its health records, and the name of your vet?
Is there a written contract, and can I read it before I pay a deposit?
What happens if it falls ill in the first weeks, or it doesn't work out?
How do you take payment, and is the deposit refundable?
Can I contact you with questions after it comes home?
Can I speak to someone who has had an animal from you?

Be wary of a seller who won't answer, won't let you see the animal (in person or on a live video call), or wants payment by gift card, wire or e-transfer to someone else's name.

Staying safe: how to spot a scam Check a contract before you sign