Conservation Commitment

Conservation Commitment

The aquarium and horticulture hobbies are some of the most effective tools we have for preserving species outside their native ranges. Captive breeding and propagation programs maintained by private hobbyists have already saved species from functional extinction - and in some cases, made reintroduction to the wild possible. Critical Mass Biophilia exists because of this conviction: that responsible private breeders and cultivators are not a threat to conservation, but a critical part of it.

Many of the species in my fishroom and greenhouse are threatened, range-restricted, or virtually absent from the trade. Every specimen I sell represents time, care, and intention - and I need buyers who share that commitment.

What I ask of you

Respect the genetics. For aquatics, genetic integrity is everything - do not house congeneric fish together where hybridization is possible. For botanical specimens, maintain accurate lineage data and keep pure species clearly labeled. If a locality line or pure species is crossed and not documented, that data is lost forever.

Never release. Animals and plants from Critical Mass must never be released into any natural waterway, drainage, or local ecosystem. No exceptions.

Propagate them. I want these species reproduced. Share offspring, trade cuttings, grow the captive population, and pass locality and lineage data along with the specimen. The whole point is building populations large enough to sustain themselves.

Rehome livestock responsibly. If you can no longer maintain a fish species or breeding group, contact me first. I will take livestock back or help place them with a qualified keeper. Do not sell or rehome conservation-priority aquatic species to unknown parties without reaching out.

What I commit to

I do my best to track lineage and locality data for every species I cultivate. I document my methods and share what I learn. I participate in CARES, ANGFA, the American Medaka Association, and USAQUA because I believe the future of this work depends on organized, informed, and vocal hobbyists who take conservation seriously.

I reserve the right to decline or cancel a sale if I believe the animals or plants will not receive appropriate care.