What to check before you buy
- See it running. A supplier with a working system on site can show you water quality, fish health and plant growth, which no catalogue can.
- Fish come with rules. Florida regulates which fish you may keep and where; tilapia rules differ by region, and some species need a permit or a certificate from the state agriculture department. Ask the seller which rules apply to you and to them.
- Match the scale. A backyard kit, a school system and a commercial farm need different pumps, filtration and backup power. Say which you are.
- Ask about support. Who you call when the pump fails at 11pm matters more than the price of the pump.