








International Aquarium on Oakland's commercial strip is a polarizing but undeniably stocked fish store that draws hobbyists from across the Bay Area with its sheer variety of tropical and exotic freshwater fish. The discus selection is the store's crown jewel — reviewers call them "amazing HUGE quality discus" and describe the staff as "discus gurus" with a massive inventory of show-quality specimens. Beyond discus, the shop carries everything from large koi and plecos to bettas, puffers (referred to by one buyer as "blowfishes"), feeder goldfish, and rare species that customers say are hard to find anywhere else in the region.
The store also stocks saltwater supplies and carries live aquarium plants, which one reviewer noted is hard to come by locally. Birds, guinea pigs, and other small animals round out the inventory, making it more of a full-spectrum pet shop than a pure aquatics destination. Dry goods and tank maintenance supplies are available, and at least one reviewer spotted flea medicine for cats and dogs behind the counter.
That said, International Aquarium's reviews tell a tale of two experiences. Many customers praise the helpful, friendly staff and the unmatched fish selection in Oakland. Others report frustration with high prices — some noting equipment marked up significantly above online retailers — and a strict no-refund policy on fish that die shortly after purchase.
Multiple reviewers lost koi, goldfish, and plecos within days, and the store's response was to offer discounted replacements rather than exchanges. Tank cleanliness varies by visit; some customers describe immaculate displays while others report dead fish floating in tanks and concerns about fin rot. The store's pricing reflects its specialty inventory — show-quality discus and rare tropical species command higher prices, which loyal customers consider worthwhile.
For Oakland aquarists seeking exotic freshwater fish they can't source elsewhere in the Bay Area, International Aquarium remains a significant destination, though buyers should inspect fish carefully and ask prices before committing.
Fei He
102 reviews
Ask the price before you purchase.
Kevin Wong
2 reviews
Very nice staff. Clean tanks. Beautiful fish!
Zeenat Bakhtyar
I loved this experience and to see all the little cute fishes and. Littel birds.
AQ
253 reviews
محل اسماك يوجد اشكال متنوعه والوان مختلفه اسعارهم مناسبة
yungiggy Ochoa
12 reviews
Just went and spent 180 the lady there was really nice we are so excited to bring these fishies home
Johnny Retail
5 reviews
It’s closed
Lamon Raney
7 reviews
😘
body bliss
I spent $120 at international aquarium store. I brought 3 koi fishes and 1 algae eater . They all died less than 24 hrs. I called the store that same day nobody answer and I couldn't leave a voice mail. I went there the next day and the lady said I have to buy more and I can get 3 koi for $75. I told her I'll just do a review on Google. So the man asks what the problem was cause they didn't want a bad review. But then again want me to buy fishes again that died less then 24 hrs.
Alison Crowley
20 reviews
Intentionally unhelpful
Shonda Roberts
96 reviews
I spent $100 here & one of the purchases was a Placo & he only lasted 4 day. My other Placo I bought at Petco lived 3 years. I tried to take it back & they said I would have to buy another one. At lease at Petco they will give you another one.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (510) 261-1688 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting International Aquarium.
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1505 International Blvd
February 8, 2026
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