About
Aquariums and Reef Center in Fort Myers has earned its reputation as one of Southwest Florida's most well-stocked aquarium shops, drawing hobbyists from across the region with an inventory that spans both freshwater and saltwater worlds. Walk in and you'll find rows of clean, well-maintained tanks housing everything from corydora catfish and tetras to rare finds like teusgelsi bichirs, dwarf crawfish, and sea urchins. The coral selection is substantial — anemones, frags, and display-worthy pieces that reviewers compare to visiting an actual public aquarium.
The store doubles as a serious equipment destination, carrying tanks, supplies, and self-serve premixed saltwater right at the entrance — a detail that freshwater and reef keepers alike appreciate for its convenience. One customer ordered a complete 75-gallon setup through the shop and had everything handled for them. Another came in during a 220-gallon reef build and found hard-to-locate replacement parts on the spot.
Staff member Steven gets singled out repeatedly for his patient, hands-on guidance, particularly with newcomers setting up their first tanks. The team has a habit of asking the right questions before selling — advising one first-time buyer to cycle their tank with additives before adding fish, a level of care that stood out after visiting three other shops. Longtime freshwater hobbyists with decades of experience report feeling equally at home, noting that the shop holds its own on the freshwater side despite the name suggesting a saltwater focus.
Pricing is frequently described as fair and budget-friendly, and the livestock arrives healthy — multiple reviewers report their purchases thriving weeks later. The store also carries live plants, adding to its appeal for planted tank enthusiasts. For Fort Myers aquarists looking for a shop that stocks deep across both fresh and saltwater categories, offers genuine guidance without rushing you, and keeps its livestock in visibly excellent condition, Aquariums and Reef Center delivers on all fronts.
Just be sure to double-check species labels on nano freshwater fish before you leave.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Extensive coral and anemone selection rivaling public aquarium displays
- Self-serve premixed saltwater available at the front of the store
- Staff member Steven praised for patient first-time tank setup guidance
- Ability to special-order rare species like teusgelsi bichirs
- Wide freshwater inventory including corydoras, tetras, shrimp, and dwarf crawfish
From keepers
Customer reviews
“I have tried to give this place a try a few different times over a couple of years. Each time I have gone to the store they ignored me and never asked if I needed help. Im happily spending my money elsewhere!”
— Leiliana rincon1.02 months ago“Great stock and smart folks”
— Lee Jackson5.03 months ago“steven was so helpful in guiding us through first-time tank setup - couldn’t have done it without him :-)”
— Lexi Scherzinger5.03 months ago“Well stocked. Purchased some corydora catfish, tetras and shrimp. Everyone is thriving. Clean tanks. Great selection. Here are my little corys settled in at home”
— Stephanie Harbury5.04 months ago“Great information, very friendly staff, tons of variety in terms of equipment inventory and a super nice selection of fish. Definitely going back when it's time to set up our salt water tank!!”
— Roy Cabalo5.05 months ago“Friendly, helpful, great selection!”
— rich bowers5.06 months ago“Good service, knowledgeable, good prices. Recommend highly for the novice.”
— Brian Harmon5.06 months ago“Great selection”
— Melissa Mathieson5.0Edited 6 months ago“Knowledgeable and friendly employees! They really care about what they do. I highly recommend this place.”
— Robin Parry5.07 months ago“This is our favorite fish store in SWFL. They always remember us, are thoughtful in helping us select fish to add to our tanks, and just all around good people!”
— Allison Bacigalupi5.0Edited 7 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (239) 334-4440 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aquariums and Reef Center.