Handling Angelfish?

[boilermaker1]

My majestic is coming on friday, I have a question about handling it because of the gill spines. I've seen quite a few photos of people gently holding them in their hands, which I guess sounds safe, is that the wise way to do it? I dont want to net it, I thought about transferring it in a specimen tub, but then I'd be transferring some shipping water to the tank (and subsequently QT water to the DT). Also thought of maybe punching a hole in a solo cup so it would drain, but then again, I've got the fish in something thats got a square bottom, and I dont think I'd want to be flopped over face first into the bottom of a cup, so I doubt a fish would either.
Whats a good way for me to be able to safely move him around?

 

[michealprater]

Interested to hear responces on this

 

[Korrine]

This is what I'd do:

1) acclimate the fish via drip method long enough that you have to dump some water off and refill with more tank water. (so a few hours)

2)Use my specimen container, not a net. (You've diluted the water so much at this point, I wouldn't be overly concerned about getting a little bit of container water in your tank. Had to do this for my starfish since they aren't supposed to touch air either.)

3) lower the container in the water and let fish out.

 

[AuroraDrvr]

Using your hand to quickly transfer him is one thing. It's when you hold and play with the fish that's a problem.

I rarely use nets when transferring a fish from a bag or bucket to the tank. If it makes you even more comfortable, use a latex glove. Be sure that you have a decent hold on the fish, so if he squirms, it will not fall out of your hand. Use two hands if necessary.

 

[snorvich]

This is what I'd do:

1) acclimate the fish via drip method long enough that you have to dump some water off and refill with more tank water. (so a few hours)

2)Use my specimen container, not a net. (You've diluted the water so much at this point, I wouldn't be overly concerned about getting a little bit of container water in your tank. Had to do this for my starfish since they aren't supposed to touch air either.)

3) lower the container in the water and let fish out.

This is what I do for all fish. I NEVER use a net.

 

[jnc914]

I never use nets with Angels. I have a large specimen container that you can remove the bottom out the to drain the water. I have also used bare hands to do quick transfers. I just recently had to that with my Bandit Angel, although she made it fairly easy by swimming into my hands.

 

[snorvich]

I never use nets with Angels. I have a large specimen container that you can remove the bottom out the to drain the water.

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