Can I Donate My Fish to the Zoo if It Gets Too Big?

🐠 Can I Donate My Fish to the Zoo if It Gets Too Big?

🦓 Zoos & accredited aquariums (like AZA facilities) almost never accept pets from private owners.
🎯 Their animals come from controlled sources: conservation programs, scientific collections, or carefully vetted breeders.
🧪 Biosecurity matters – even one sick or parasite-carrying fish could risk an entire collection.
📋 Paperwork & records – most zoos require a documented history of the animal, including origin, health checks, and quarantine records, which hobbyists usually can’t provide.

🧬 Genetics – Zoos avoid hybrids or unknown bloodlines that can “pollute” their breeding programs.
🪣 Space limitations – Large fish like Pacu, Redtail Catfish, Arowanas, and Plecos are surrendered often. Facilities don’t have infinite big tanks to house them.
💰 Resource demand – A single large fish can require hundreds of gallons of water, strong filtration, and high food costs.

🏬 Local Fish Stores (LFS) – Some accept oversized fish and will resell or rehome responsibly.
🐟 Aquarium Clubs & Fish Swaps – Many hobbyists run large “monster tanks” and are happy to adopt.
🌐 Online Communities – Forums, Facebook groups, or Craigslist “rehoming” posts can connect you with experienced keepers.
🏞️ Rescue Centers – Some specialized rescues (like Monster Fish Rescue or certain nonprofits) take in large species.
🤝 Networking – Local koi ponds, public gardens, or universities with aquatic programs sometimes accept donations (always ask first).

🚫 Never Release Into the Wild – Illegal in most places. Can destroy ecosystems, spread disease, or create invasive species (Pacu, Plecos, Tilapia, etc.).
🚫 Don’t “Tank Dump” – Leaving a fish outside a store or facility is dangerous and cruel. Many die from stress, cold, or lack of oxygen.

⚠️ These fish are sold small but quickly overwhelm average tanks.

While zoos and aquariums won’t rehome your fish, you have options:

💡 Think of it this way: your fish may outgrow your tank, but it doesn’t have to outgrow the hobby if placed with the right new owner.