No warning?

OCDP · #1 04-24-2006, 07:26 PM

After reading the zoanthid toxicity warning threads it made me think...

Why is it that the LFS's don't inform, or have papers up, something, anything... with information to zoanthid or any other coral poisoning? I'm not saying it's bad that they don't , and it's all their fault or anything like that. I am just wondering why there is no warning other than what we've seen online (and there's many of us who are unfamiliar with these resources)

Does it seem a little odd to any of you? Perhaps I am the only one, but it seems LFS's should inform, and online vendors should note the possible poisoning of zoanthids and any other corals. This would give people a great warning and I am sure they would take extra measures in being careful with the corals.

Anywhoo, just something that popped into my head... the only warnings I have seen are from what I have researched and found out online (RC and here) If it weren't for these sites, I'd have no clue. This wouldn't be such a big deal if zoanthids weren't so darn toxic. They can do a number on you from what I've read. No matter how low the risk, there is still risk, and my chances are as good as yours.. so , do you all think there should be some extra added "Warning" ???

seashells · #2 04-24-2006, 07:47 PM

Some of our LFS do have warnings posted. Let them know, it's a good idea.

OCDP · #3 04-24-2006, 07:51 PM

Well then! Good to hear there are warnings up. I guess I was thinking of Calgary LFS's in particular. I will ask or mention next time I'm in that they should put up a warning or just a note at very least near tanks with zoos in them... It is in the end, pretty dangerous stuff. Especially if your a newbie and your being very careless and not handling them with care, I'd assume your chance of becoming poisoned is greater? Anyhow.. good to hear that there are indeed warnings out there for some.

Willow · #4 04-24-2006, 08:12 PM

dude there is so much stuff in this hobby that could potentaly harm you where do you begin!

OCDP · #5 04-24-2006, 08:29 PM

I was talking in terms of livestock... yeah, we could go into the discussion of all the toxic fishies out there, etc.... and you could easily say "wheres the warning" ?

Anyways, I didn't want to start any kind of argument or debate. It was just a simple thought that came to mind. A warning would save a lot of grief, and would give reefkeepers both new and experienced a better understanding and without a doubt would handle these animals with much more care.

mark · #6 04-24-2006, 09:10 PM

Real world, liability drives a lot of practices. Maybe a LFS would not libel if someone was poisoned, therefore why put up a warning that could potentially cost a sale. Or maybe putting up a warning could be admitting they are aware of a potential hazard so why open that up.

OCDP · #7 04-24-2006, 09:21 PM

I guess in my mind when your potentially talking about someones life (or a dog's....) you'd think they'd forget dollars and start thinking logically. Nothing should prevent a sale if explained properly... wear gloves, be safe, handle with caution... all very simple things that IMO as a buyer, I'd be grateful for knowing. The risk is low, so if I was told this.. I don't think it would drive me away from buying it. I am being informed.. and that's what it's all about. Be safe, and you'll be A-OK

That's all it takes.

midgetwaiter · #8 04-24-2006, 10:06 PM

IMO, my *Personal* opinion only, is that these potential issues are not at serious as you might think from reading places like RC and such. There have been and handful of specific incidents that start to look like a big problem because they are referenced multiple times.

Nobody really understands much about Zoanthid toxicity, same as most other toxic or potentially toxic marine animals. Bad or incomplete information can be more dangerous than no information in certain ways.

If you want a good example of this, look at what happens with reptiles and "salmonella". There has never been more than a handful of cases of transmission between reptiles and humans and most of the confirmed cases can be linked to reptiles being fed uncooked poultry. I overheard a girl at Petland warn a little girl about the potential for a Red Foot Tortoise to give her salmonella on Saturday, it's a joke.

It's also used by groups like PETA to discourage people from reptile ownership. This is the part that really concerns me. I can't imagine sitting in customs waiting for them to magically determine which corals in my shipment are potentially toxic. I'm sure that would be a disaster.

If anyone knows of some comprehensive information concerning zoa toxicity I'd like to read them.

Pan · #9 04-24-2006, 10:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OCDP

After reading the zoanthid toxicity warning threads it made me think...

Why is it that the LFS's don't inform, or have papers up, something, anything... with information to zoanthid or any other coral poisoning? I'm not saying it's bad that they don't , and it's all their fault or anything like that. I am just wondering why there is no warning other than what we've seen online (and there's many of us who are unfamiliar with these resources)

Does it seem a little odd to any of you? Perhaps I am the only one, but it seems LFS's should inform, and online vendors should note the possible poisoning of zoanthids and any other corals. This would give people a great warning and I am sure they would take extra measures in being careful with the corals.

Anywhoo, just something that popped into my head... the only warnings I have seen are from what I have researched and found out online (RC and here) If it weren't for these sites, I'd have no clue. This wouldn't be such a big deal if zoanthids weren't so darn toxic. They can do a number on you from what I've read. No matter how low the risk, there is still risk, and my chances are as good as yours.. so , do you all think there should be some extra added "Warning" ???

I think they are assuming you know what your doing...ie not buying a big dog for a little apartment kinda thing...not saying it's right or wrong....plus they may just be lazy

Chad · #10 04-24-2006, 10:31 PM

just because your chances are small doesn't mean you should not be informed.

Sticking your hand in the tank opens up a world of infectious posibilities.

I see nothing wrong with a responsible employee providing legitimate information to potential buyers. These warnings are not there to scare people away, but to inform and teach proper handling and husbandry practices. When given in that context, it becomes very valuable information.