Direct sales of live fish is possible only if the fish stay alive. Transferring fish from production ponds to holding facilities or hauling tanks is stressful to the fish. Care must be taken to avoid abrupt changes in water temperature or water quality. If the difference in water temperature is greater than 5 degrees Fahrenheit, water should be changed gradually to allow the fish time to adjust. Holding in Tanks Fish can be held in tanks if they are to be sold over a two to three day period.
Tanks vary greatly in size, material and cost.
The three most common types are holding vats, tanks and aquaria. Concrete vats may vary in size but are generally rectangular in shape, with a water inlet at one end and a drain at the other end. Tanks are constructed on top of a concrete slab, with side walls of concrete block or poured concrete. Generally built outside, most are covered by a roof. A typical facility is shown in Figure 1.