I agree with you both, reef_raf is right in that you don't have to read it, and I also agree people Should ask lots of questions............but....
I also agree with teevee that people should make more of an effort to learn about the animals they intend to keep. Even though a specific question may be answered as to the specific topic, the general associated knowledge to apply the info is missing. Eg: " How do I keep anemones?" questions of this type shows that very little effort has been made towards general knowledge. What's next? "Can guppies go in my reef?"
I often wonder if they even have a basic understanding of their water parameters to start with eg: PH,Ammonia,Nitrite,Nitrate, Salinity etc....
Yes I feel the flames heating up under me as I write this!(After this teevee I'll take most of the heat for your rant I'm sure)
I just wish the question was more like:" I really like anemones, and I would like some suggestions on a good book/website to learn more. Also which would be a good hardy anemone for a beginner to start with?"
What do I base this opinion on?
I've worked/managed aquarium stores, and too many customers don't want to learn.
They'd rather impulse buy, and ask questions later hoping for the "magic answer". The sad thing is they'll go to another store until they hear the easy answer they want to hear. In the end the animals lose.
Yes, I have refused to sell items that the hobbyist was unprepared to care for, but I always made an attempt to redirect them to a more appropriate item or teach them what they need to know.
Unfortunately books are one of a stores slowest sellers......
There are no shortcuts, and yes I do enjoy helping beginners.
I've mentored many beginners over the years and I myself continue to be taught by others. I feel that this has been a big part of my success.
Golden rules for Succesful Reef keeping:
1- Patience
2- Knowledge
3- Luck ( Had to add this one )
First thing to buy for a Successful Reef Aquarium:
A book........
The BEST money saving Reef Aquarium item:
A book.........
When the student is ready,.... the teacher appears..........