Dont Impuse buy fish

You could end up with a problem..




Joking aside, it is well worth walking away from the shop without buying a "nice fish" until you have done some research on it first, how big will it grow, what sort of tank set up does it require, temperature, feeding. There are many many fish bought on impulse that end up being returned to the shop (if allowed) or disposed of. The common plec is one of the most abused fish, many bought cheaply as "algae eaters" but end up outgrowing the tanks.

I've only just seen this :S
Very funny picture that did make me giggle.
However i do agree with what you have put above, i know of many people who have brought fish on impulse buying and as you said either swiftly move them on or back to the pet shop.
I have always done research before buying any fish, a key thing is never rely on one place try a few different sites or ask for others opinions of forums.