Dr.fishkeeper
GBI found the forum overall wasn't a good forum I found the forum overall wasn't as large as i expected, a few members accounting for much of the activity. This wasn't an issue until I realized several we're pretty biased and not very well informed, some even borderline rude. It also seemed the staff harrassed certain members, just poor tact. I'm still a member but never use the site anymore, between YouTube channels, Facebook groups and other forums there are just simply better resources available.
MitchellShawnHowell
CAbanned for doing literally nothing. Made a account so I could ask a question Regarding my Aquarium but went to sleep before I posted, I went to sign in and post my question but before I could do anything I was banned. Didn’t give me a reason or what “rule” I violated. I didn’t post any comments or forms, I made an account and signed out for the night. Then I was banned the next morning.
JK
GBFL Not What It Used To Be I've been a member on FL for several years. While I'm by no means an expert, I certainly know the basics of fish keeping. Over the past year, I've seen many more "incorrect" answers to people's questions. Lots of bad advice being given these days on FL. There were many folks there whom I considered reliable people to bounce questions off. They seem to have all left. I've seen posts that question the mods suddenly disappear, and things really seem to have gone downhill there. I still check in there from time to time, but there are far better sites these days to get fish keeping advice. If you're thinking of joining FL, I'd suggest you look elsewhere...
Bob Martin
GBKid site Kid site 90% are children asking very childish questions. Most ask about issues that can’t be remedied like buying inadequate fish for their tanks, or not knowing the nitrogen cycle, or just doing no so smart things. Then not being able to buy even the basics to keep fish healthy because they’re children. Parents irresponsibly bought them a setup they because people think fish are ‘easy’ and ‘inexpensive’ - a ‘great first pet for a kid’ and now their kids are briefly interested. Not a lot here for even a somewhat knowledgeable aquarist. Posters eventually grow out of it very quickly because well they’re children. They give out poor advice as you can imagine as well. There are a couple posters who know a bit but don’t post much - if you really want to be knowledgeable in the hobby this isn’t the forum to be.
Nelson
CAThe Hotel California fishtank. I was on the site for a couple of years, and enjoyed it til the mods noticed me. They behave as if volunteer helpers aiding new aquarists are their paid employees. I've wondered if they feel like they have a massive business empire with large numbers of imaginary workers. It's no surprise members were asked to come here and give positive ratings. With the number of "membership culls" and banning parties they embark on, it's also no wonder they don't always get the reviews they expect. It looks great, til you really get to know the place...Unfortunate, as with more reasonable leadership, they would have more knowledgeable voices there.