How can I start a business selling saltwater aquarium fish?

[Tabitha]

You want a high starting capital. You want enough to get your stock and setup, enough to operate at least 6 months if the store gets no income, and shop around. Know that phone, electric, etc, rates are much higher for a commercial user than a residential. To run the same tank that is at your home in a retail store would cost 2-3 times, or more, than what it costs you in electricity and water in your home! An employee that you pay $10 an hour actually will cost you more than that an hour, maybe $14 and hour, from additional costs in matching social security, worker's comp insurance, etc. It is usually the hidden costs that will destroy and bankrupt a new small business.

Start with a good business plan and estimated start up and operation cost, then double that.