Soothing, I miss the latex feel, too. I've received shrimp from breeders who still have those older bags, and they feel a lot better than the newer poly ones.
I went with a cheaper unit:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GJCE2X4/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?qid=1443740489&sr=8-4&pi=SL75_QL70&keywords=purewaterclub
After spending so much money on my shrimp and shrimp products, I can hardly believe I once thought this was something I could get around using. Small investment, but made a huge difference in shrimp keeping for me.
Are you using RO water or tap? I had the same problems as you when I first started with OEBT, and just used tap and Prime. Lost half the colony one by one. Quickly took the good advice of the experienced shrimpers here on SS, and switched to RO with Salty Shrimp GH+. Keep temperatures low; the cooler the better. If you're planning to move them, just make sure to slowly drip acclimate them to the new tank.
Yeah, kinda got left in the dark. I usually expect some sort of status update after the intial confirmation of a purchase email, or that a shipping label is being created. But they actually called me back today, were apologetic, and are sending out the shrimp today. Good enough for me. Ordering process needs some tweaking and streamlining for the future.
Has anyone ordered from Blue Crown Aquatic Trade lately? I placed an order through their website last Monday, but haven't received any updates from them. I tried emailing and leaving messages through their site, but no response. It's quite peculiar because they were outstanding last year when I ordered from them. Just wondering if anyone knows what's up. Thanks.
Just scored some sweet Shrimp Nature products during the 20% off sale! Moringa, Brown, Kale, leaves, and alder cones! Super fast shipping, free candies, and a whole Shrimpernet cinnamon spring roll! Thanks, Erik!