S.G. at LFS

[Waters]

Any idea why there would be such a large swing of specific gravity numbers and fish stores? I purchased a fish yesterday at a new store that I have never been to and tested the SG. It was 1.029 which seems extremely high. My normal LFS seems to keep there fish at 1.018. Is this just neglect or is there a reason behind these extremes? I can see the lower numbers to possibly treat Ich (they keep their inverts higher) but I cannot think of any reason to keep it at 1.029.

 

[vlangel]

I worked for a LFS. They were meticulous about the SG. They however had 2 systems, primarily FO and the other reef. Their FO system which they keep the bulk of their fish in the SG is .019 to ward off parasites. Their reef system is .024 but most of the fish from that system are not for sale as they weren't catchable.

 

[Reefing Madness]

The lower the SG the easier it is to keep parasites away from the fish. Most will keep it around 1.017-1.018 for that reason.

 

[cdness]

The lower salinity is just what they said...

The higher could be a number of things. Inaccurate testing at the LFS, evaporation got out of hand, Accidental top off with saltwater, etc. It isn't good, but you should let them know.