International Aquarium

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.