Unless you help to save him, that is. Dalhousie University Professor Dr. Alan Pinder is closing down his clownfish breeding program and needs to find homes for hundreds of the fish  along with the equipment used to house them.

When a staff reporter visited the breeding lab on Saturday, he was greeted by tired, yet determined Biology students,  who are well on their way to achieving their goal of saving their charges from their date with death in January.

Judging by the steady stream parents with small children and aquarium enthusiasts encountered on Saturday afternoon, it appears the “Save-a-Nemo” program , headed by Diego Ibarra, is a success. Aquariums filled with sand  and coral were being wheeled to waiting cars , their former occupants lovingly handled in big plastic bags by their new owners.

Reading the project’s web-site ,  Haligonians might actually have to hurry if they want a chance to bring a piece of the ocean home , since supply seems to be dwindling.

One of the reasons for this could be the price. The fish are being sold in three kits. First, there is a miniature – or starter- kit , consisting of a one galloon tank, some sand as well as other equipment needed to keep the fish alive. It cost $50 and includes one clown fish.  The medium sized kit, at $200, includes a 15 gallon tank ,equipment, sand, corrals, live rock, as well as a fish . A “massive kit” , at a $1000 each, is also available. Note that for some kits, lights (around $10 at local hardware stores) must be purchased separately.

A quick conversation with a veteran salt-water aquarium enthusiast who was on scene, indicated that the wares on offer are well below market prices. The project has, therefore, become a cheap gateway to what is usually an expensive hobby.

According to the project’s website, the small starter kits have been sold out and will only be back for grabs after 4pm on Monday. Larger kits , however, can be picked up today on the fourth floor of  the Dalhousie biology wing (Life Science Centre 4123). Enter the building from the Lord Dalhousie Drive, since other entrances are closed on weekends and in the evenings.