About
Tucked away in Enfield, Connecticut, Alex's Advanced Aquatics is the kind of one-man local fish store that inspires serious loyalty. Customers regularly drive 40-plus minutes each way to shop here, and it's easy to see why. Owner Alex runs the place solo — open to close, every day — and brings a depth of knowledge and genuine passion for fishkeeping that the big-box stores simply can't replicate.
The shop is compact, and Alex would be the first to admit it. But what's packed inside those walls is impressive. Freshwater hobbyists will find a strong selection of tropical fish, from Celestial pearl danios (a species rarely stocked at retail stores) to gorgeous Halfmoon bettas, alongside shrimp, snails, loaches, and well-established aquatic plants grown submerged — meaning they adapt quickly to home tanks without the frustrating melt-back that plagues emersed-grown plants from chain stores.
Goldfish keepers also sing his praises. On the saltwater side, Alex stocks a surprisingly robust coral collection that reviewers consistently describe as healthy and affordably priced. Multiple customers who've toured every fish store in northern Connecticut say his prices on both corals and livestock are unbeatable — one reviewer picked up shrimp at literally half the cost of competitors.
What truly sets this shop apart is the experience of shopping here. Alex takes time with every customer, whether it's patiently fielding questions from a seven-year-old or walking a first-time fishkeeper through plant selection and equipment choices without overwhelming them. He offers honest care advice rooted in years of hands-on experience, and if something isn't in stock, he'll order it — there's even an option to order fish online for in-store pickup.
The vibe is less polished retail showroom and more fellow hobbyist's fish room, and that's precisely the appeal. You're getting quality livestock, competitive pricing, and expert guidance from someone who genuinely cares whether your tank thrives long after you leave the store.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- ConsultationOnline Store
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Owner-operated daily with deep hands-on expertise in both freshwater and saltwater
- Healthy corals at prices reviewers call unbeatable in northern Connecticut
- Well-established submerged-grown aquatic plants that adapt quickly to home tanks
- Rare species like Celestial pearl danios alongside bettas, shrimp, and snails
- Online ordering with in-store pickup for out-of-stock livestock
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Very knowledgeable!!!!”
— Chris Prass5.0a month ago“I purchased two algae shrimp from Alex, he was happy to explain and help me through my fish buying as well. The shrimp are happy a month later so I will be going back for more fish!”
— Joy H5.02 months ago“Great for beginners and experienced hobbyists!”
— Cassandra Chapados5.02 months ago“We into the store last week and found Alex extremely helpful, he helped us pick out appropriate plants and equipment for a first time fish keepers, he was very knowledgeable and informative without overwhelming us with. As beginners in the hobby we felt comfortable asking questions, the plants and equipment we purchased were fairly priced and the plants especially were well established and grown submerged and I haven't encountered any melting. On the contrary, they seem to have shown new growth already in my new tank. I will definitely be returning as I continue to establish my tank and grow further into fishkeeping.”
— ReD5.04 months ago“Always very helpful and friendly, highly recommend”
— Chris Roy5.05 months ago“The best of the best”
— Juan Andino (Andinos Aquariums)5.0Edited 8 months ago“Alex is so nice and knowledgeable as I was getting fish for a newly set up tank. Got the perfect fish for my tank. I will be a repeat customer.”
— Holly Seibert5.08 months ago“The best local place to get fish at a great price. The owner is very knowledgeable of the fish he has and is willing to teach you about them and provide help as needed. Sells plants, fish, snails, shrimp, loaches, and more. Definitely worth a visit.”
— Zebrahh Dube5.011 months ago“Alex is the best, not many local pet stores have the owner there every day from open to close besides Alex. Great selection of fish, always great conversation, and some great plant choices as well.”
— Ricardo A5.0a year ago“Truly great lfs with an expert running the place. Very experienced and knowledgable owner. This is the place to go for healthy fish, great prices, nuanced care, and good conversation.”
— Cathy B5.0a year ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (860) 265-2170 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Alex's Advanced Aquatics.