Stopped in and checked them out yesterday, it is looking better than last time i visited. more of the fish were alive, including that tattooed fish. it was my last trip to that store, i refuse to patronize any shop that sells tortured fish.  looks like the fish selection was about equal to pet supplies plus, all tanks on centralized filter system.

We drove past a couple of weeks ago, I was curious about the place.  Tattooed fish are unethical.

I 100% agree that tattooed fish are unethical and should not be bought or purchased.  That being said, I am a regular customer there. Also helps that I live close by.  They are a very new store and have a lot of work to do.  But stop in and talk to the owners. Dave and Tracy I believe are there names.  Dave who has been a huge ascet to me setting up my planted tank is always willing to give helpful advice and has special ordered what he could for me on more than one occasion.  I doubt you will find that specialized attention at the big box pet stores. I can only speak about there fish department, as I dont own any other pets.  But I have been in there enough times too see that they take care of people on their other departments as well.  I will admit I am concerned about their centralized filtration...disease and what not, but give them a break. It cant be easy starting a new store.  (besides we should be qt our own fish after purchase right :) )  I know they eventaully want to start a saltwater department as well.  As far as the tattoed fish go, I wont try and justify it. Shame on them.  I did only see them once and have yet to see them again.   Hopefully more people will start visiting a nice locally owned store and give them some business. Give them a chance.

Speaking as someone who has a few tats, how the heck do they tattoo a fish?????????

put them in very cold water to stun/numb them 

if you ever see mollies with a heart or numbers on them thats a tattooed fish

OneThunder said :

Speaking as someone who has a few tats, how the heck do they tattoo a fish?????????

It involves needles, just like for people.  They'd have to get the dye under the fish's scales, so there is probably a lot of damage to the fish.  I think a fairly large percentage of them don't survive the process.

i've seen the store in person several months ago and wasnt impressed but my mom had some fish special ordered and was happy with them.

I have called the store and spoke to a fairly knowledgable guy, beleive his name was Dave. Seems willing to help and I think I'll give them a shot when I'm ready for my ray and jardini.