12 December 2000

RSPCA Attacks Gift Box Fish Tanks

Aquababies UK, a retailer selling miniature aqauriums containing miniature fish and frogs has been attacked as irresponsible by the RSPCA as part of its campaign against giving pets as gifts. The tanks measure 5"x4" and are sold complete with their occupants (either two tiny fish or frogs) as 'low maintenance' pets. The RSPCA's concerns are over the suitability of the conditions, in particular that such small volumes of water can fluctuate widely in temperature and also that their 'gift box' appeal will mean that shoppers will buy them as presents without thinking about the consequnces for the animals. However AquaBabies UK insist that the fish can live without discomfort for up to two years at normal home and office temperatures saying: "AquaBabies exist in a perfect ecosystem. The tiny fish, aquatic plant, live rocks, and natural water share their habitat in balance and beauty." The company, which was launched in the U.S. and has now come to U.K. having sold about 100,000 units in six months, is alerting visitors to their web-site to beware of copy-cat products which it claims are inferior in quality and do not provide a suitable environment for the fish. In addition to care information, the company runs a seperate on-line catalogue of products and accessories at www.aquaticchariot.com. Copyright 2000 Steve O'Malley (UKPets). This article may be reproduced with permission of the author and correct attribution to the source.