There's an interesting article in the Salt Lake Tribune today about the aquarium maintenance business.  They interviewed Bob Smith of Wet Pets (Layton, home based business) and Randy Olsen (MSM, large scale).  Here's the article:  http://www.sltrib.com/2004/May/05112004/business/165343.asp - http://www.sltrib.com/2004/May/05112004/business/165343.asp

How much does it cost to start a business?

Minimum initial investment: Varies. Bob Smith, who owns and operates his one-person business Wet Pets out of his east Layton home, estimates it takes at least $5,000 to get started, but Randy Olsen of Mountain Shadow Marine in Centerville says at least $10,000 is needed. Budget for a business license and registering the business name; liability insurance; marketing, such as Yellow Pages advertising; a vehicle and mileage for meeting with clients; and various supplies. Larger enterprises that use a separate facility and hire employees will need to budget for such things as utilities and leasing or renting the business site.

How much will you make?

 Estimated income: Varies. Smith bolsters his maintenance business with sales of tanks, fish and other supplies. In 2003, he estimates he grossed between $70,000 and $90,000. Olsen's business, which includes six maintenance vehicles, an 8,000-square-foot facility with an on-site lab, a retail outlet and employs 12 full-time workers, grossed about $1 million last year.

I think I know what they mean by on-site lab.   Here is what I remember.  It is a room about 10 X 8? (I usually overestimate on room size) with a wrap around work bench on at least two sides.

Some of the equipment I remember (recognized) includes:  analytical scale, microscope,  electronic test equipment (maybe it was for pH, and other water quality stuff), test kits, a small tank that looked like an experimental setup containing jellyfiesh?  (remember I'm the novice).  Lots of other stuff I didn't recognize.  They were also experimenting with a calcium reactor with a controller?  Sorry for the lack of details, but it is a start until someone else that knows more can respond.

Reminded me of a biology/chemistry lab.  I want a microscope.   I can't think of a better term, but on-site lab might sound like more than it was.  It wasn't NIH or Sandia or anything like that.

I get the impression that most of you "salty fish people" already have equal amounts invested in your hobbies.

Maybe you should fill out the paperwork and start getting the business tax advantage (or is that disadvantage)?

I too was contacted for this arctilce but didn't comment.  I'll wait for the next article to be printed, which Mark already mentioned.

Adam