Mark's Ark

Mark's Ark in Greenacres, Florida is a family-owned pet shop with deep roots in the Palm Beach County community, and while it casts a wide net across the animal kingdom — birds, reptiles, rodents, rabbits, ferrets — its freshwater fish section is what draws serious hobbyists through the door. Reviewers consistently praise the store's outstanding freshwater fish selection, from tropical community species to nano-aquarium-sized fish that excite small-tank enthusiasts. Live plants and cherry shrimp round out the aquatic inventory, and at least one customer successfully launched a balcony pond project with plants and water treatment supplies purchased here.

The tanks are generally described as clean, with fish looking healthy and active — a notable step up from chain store offerings, according to regulars. A recent refresh with black-painted tank display facings gave the aquarium section a polished, eye-catching look that customers appreciated. Staff member Cameron gets particular praise for patiently guiding new fishkeepers through complete aquarium setups from scratch, offering the kind of sustained, one-on-one attention that big-box stores simply can't match.

Pricing is competitive — a case of 1,500 crickets for $30 is one frequently cited bargain — and the store stocks a full range of supplies, food, and essentials for both aquatic and terrestrial pets. The knowledgeable staff is generally willing to answer questions and educate, though a handful of reviews note inconsistent customer service experiences depending on who's working. Mark's Ark isn't exclusively a fish store, and that's part of its charm: you might walk in for guppies and leave having fallen in love with a cockatiel or a bearded dragon that waved at you from its tank.

But for freshwater fishkeepers in the Greenacres and greater Palm Beach area looking for healthy livestock, live plants, and genuinely helpful guidance on setting up or stocking a tank, it's a destination worth the trip. Just note there's a $5 minimum on card transactions, and parking can be tight.