Healthy Young Adults Ready to Thrive 

We typically ship robust young adult fish, which are well suited for safe transport. At this stage, both males and females are at or near breeding age. Non-gravid females are selected by age (young females) so may be gravid, while visibly gravid females are usually within 1–2 weeks of dropping fry.

Shipping Methods & Rates 

USPS First Class — $5 (2–5 days)

• For up to to 4 non-fish / non-shrimp items

USPS Priority Mail — $16 (1–3 days)

• For orders over 4 items or any order containing fish or shrimp

• The USPS tracking number is emailed on your ship date

• Ship days: Primarily Mondays. This helps prevent packages from being delayed at USPS facilities over weekends.

Non-continental destinations (Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, etc)

• Shipping prices are calculated in the shopping cart

International orders

• Please order on the International page

Order preparation:

• Preparation may take a few days so most orders ship the week following purchase.

• An order confirmation email is sent approximately one day after your order is placed with a scheduled ship date.

• Please check your spam / junk folder, as some email providers may filter these messages.

Temperature Based Shipping

We monitor weather forecasts and ship only when several consecutive days are within safe parameters for the fish, shrimp and plants.

Orders Over $50 (excluding shipping)

• Shipped only when temperatures along the shipping route are between 35°F lows and 90°F highs (the operating limits of heat and cold packs) 

• Insulated packaging with heat or cold packs included as needed

Orders Under $50 (excluding shipping)

• Shipped only when temperatures along the shipping route are between 50°F lows and 80°F highs

Once your fish or shrimp arrive, they must be properly acclimated to your tank’s water parameters before release. We strongly recommend using the Drip Acclimation Method, as it provides the safest transition and minimizes stress.

After acclimation and introduction to the tank, feed your fish as soon as possible. To prepare for shipping, fish are not fed for a day prior to shipment, and combined with transit time, this may result in 2–4 days without food.

It’s normal for shipping stress to temporarily affect appearance and feeding:

• Male color may initially appear lighter

• They may eat lightly or pick at food initially

This typically resolves within a few days. Once fully acclimated, males will display full coloration and feeding will be vigorous. Maintaining a consistent routine (lighting, feeding schedule, and stable water conditions) helps speed acclimation.

Drip Acclimation Guide

Drip acclimation slowly introduces your tank water into the shipping water, allowing temperature and water chemistry to adjust gradually. This significantly reduces shock and potential losses due to acclimation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare a drip cup
   Use a plastic cup (such as a sports drink cup) and insert 3–4 inches of airline tubing through the side.

2. Add tank water
   Fill the cup with water from your aquarium and warm it slightly (5–10°F above tank temperature) to account for cooling during the drip process.

3. Prepare the fish container
   Place the fish and shipping water into a separate container. Remove some water so only about 1 inch remains, just enough to fully cover the fish. Cover the container to prevent jumping – this is critical.

4. Position containers
   Place the fish container below the drip cup of tank water.

5. Start the drip
   Begin dripping water slowly from the drip cup into the fish container.

6. Increase volume gradually
   Continue dripping until the container holds at least four times the original volume of shipping water. Water chemistry and temperature should closely match your tank at this point.

7. Final check and release
   Confirm the Endlers aren't distressed, then gently pour the fish into the aquarium.