Unfortunately...I am new to this site. The only person that knows me is Barbie. I promised to post what I found out...and here it is! Keep in mind, that I'm not selling any fish/trying to impress anyone/or making up stories to have a good laugh. Here is what I found out. It's bound to cause some contraversy
I spent 2-1/2 hours on the phone with my supplier. He has discussed this issue, with several of his suppliers. Believe what you want...but I have no reason to BS anybody!
He believes that there's a new person that just took over the control of the exportation of Brazilian fish. It's very common in fish (as well as other things) when somebody new takes over...the rules start to change. He said that the real issue here...is a problem with new requirements regarding exportation. The new person in charge, is holding back ANY fish, that don't have proper species and genus documentation. Yes; the zebras are Hypancistrus species...but they don't have a specific genus. That is why exportation of other types of plecos (and other fish) have been halted. Sloppy documentation has gone on for years...but the new person in charge is laying down the law on it now. Zebras aren't on the Cites list yet...and haven't been officially put on the threatened or endangered yet.
He "speculates" that they are stockpiling zebras (as well as other fish) in the holding facilities...until this problem gets cleared up. He also said he wouldn't be surprised if the price of zebras actually dropped (due to the stockpiling) once this problem is resolved.
I know that this probably sounds ridiculous to some/most people...but time will tell. I promised to post what I found out...and there it is.
I'd also like to point out - that I could've bought as many zebras as I wanted from him right now...but they are currently 1"...and $80 a piece wholesale. I won't get into the reason why he has them, and apparently not many others do right now. He told me to hold off for now...as he expects bigger ones in, for the same price, within the next 2 weeks.
I'm a simple breeder, and I don't get involved in resale...so PLEASE don't ask. I will gladly sell any of my fry, once they are available. (US and possibly Canada only)
Thanks for listening...and please don't think I'm crazy (YET)
