About
Tucked into Lauderhill, Florida, Nature Aquariums is a family-owned shop that has earned a devoted following across Broward County—customers regularly drive 45 minutes past closer stores just to walk through its doors. The massive freshwater section is the main draw, stocked with healthy corydoras varieties (emerald, spotted, pygmy), otocinclus algae eaters, bettas, and an ever-rotating selection of tropical fish. The saltwater side covers corals, reef equipment, and marine livestock, though freshwater is clearly the heartbeat of this operation.
Plant lovers will find one of South Florida's strongest selections of aquatic plants at reasonable prices, alongside hardscape materials, aquasoils, and aquascaping supplies that reviewers call unmatched in the region. The dry goods section is substantial, carrying specialty items that are either overpriced or simply unavailable at bigger chain stores. At least one customer outfitted an entire UNS 60T build—tank, substrate, plants, equipment—entirely from Nature Aquariums' shelves.
Owner Henry is the personality at the center of it all. He'll print out a nitrogen cycle guide for newcomers, design tank layouts, and share the kind of reef and freshwater knowledge that even decades-long hobbyists find valuable. He also runs a YouTube channel (@natureaquariumsusa) for ongoing education.
Staff member Nathan handles maintenance calls—one customer credits him with rescuing an algae-overrun saltwater tank during a family emergency. The shop also offers water and light testing on-site, which proves especially useful for customers dialing in new planted setups. The tanks throughout the store are notably clean and well-maintained, serving as living advertisements for the livestock quality.
A few reviewers have noted a gatekeeping tendency—staff may push back if your setup doesn't meet their standards before selling you fish. For most, this registers as genuine care rather than attitude. Nature Aquariums rewards curiosity: come with questions, and you'll leave with both answers and a bag of fish.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Massive freshwater section with rare species like pygmy corydoras and otocinclus
- One of South Florida's best selections of aquatic plants and aquascaping supplies
- Owner Henry provides personalized tank design guidance and printed cycling guides
- On-site water and light testing for new and established setups
- Tank maintenance and cleaning services including emergency house calls
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Henry knows his fishes”
— DON MILLS5.04 days ago“I’m new to the aquarium hobby and honestly had no idea where to begin. I didn’t even understand the nitrogen conversion cycle or how important it is for keeping a tank healthy. Henry was incredibly helpful and patient, explaining everything in a way that made sense and made the whole process feel easy. Henry even printed out a tank cycling guide packet for me to take home and follow. He also deserves full credit for the beautiful design of my tank. I highly recommend this store—Henry will definitely guide you in the right direction. If you need any information or help on taking care of your aquarium, I suggest you visit his YouTube channel—@natureaquariumsusa.”
— Ash5.02 weeks ago“Extremely rude customer service. They have a good selection however I dread going into the store due to the attitude I receive every time I’ve been. I asked one of the staff members a simple question and was met with unnecessary rudeness. I don’t recommend going here as there are much better places with much better attitude such as Aquarium Show in Sunrise that have always been helpful and kind. I tried to move past the rudeness due to the selection, however it has been overwhelmingly disrespectful to treat customers like this and will be taking my business elsewhere going forward.”
— Christopher Balli1.03 weeks ago“Everyone was super helpful in aiding me with the purchase of my first betta fish. He's thriving and I named him Keith.”
— Kim Picher5.0a month ago“I always have a great experience in this store. The staff is knowledgeable, the displays are beautiful and the selection is fantastic. Their fish are all very healthy and living in great conditions. They have a great selection is plants as well. Totally recommend”
— Justin Gilbert5.0a month ago“I visited this place in search of speciality items that were either overpriced or unavailable elsewhere. To my delight, the staff were kind and helpful and I found all the items I was looking for. Overall it was a 5/5 experience and I will be visiting again.”
— Mason Katcher5.0a month ago“Very nice customer service”
— Ricardo Graveran5.0a month ago“What an experience! Walked in not knowing was going to leave with so MUCH knowledge on CORAL, FISH & AQUARIUM maintenance. My fiancé asked a question, and was so pleasantly surprised by all the GENUINE Care the owner gave to our Questions. It wasn't about a Sale at all. It was about truly Teaching and wanting us to succeed with the tank set up. Staff was Pleasant and helpful as well. Best Experience I've ever had at an Aquarium shop! ( our first time visiting ) This is how you treat a potential Customer! Give them a visit. You won't be disappointed , I'm a FOREVER CUSTOMER NOW!”
— Tee5.0a month ago“Nature Aquarium is staffed with great people. Henry , will give you advice on any type of set up , without trying to sell you anything. All the fish tanks I saw had healthy fish. Henry sold me on his knowledge and great attitude.”
— j gonzalez5.0a month ago“Nature Aquariums has become our family's go-to spot for aquatic plants and freshwater fish. The tanks are well-maintained, and they carry a great variety—my daughter always finds something new to admire when we visit. What keeps us coming back is the staff. They're genuinely knowledgeable and happy to answer questions without any pressure. Whether you're an experienced hobbyist or just starting out, they take the time to help you find what you need. If you're looking for quality plants, healthy fish, and reliable advice, it's worth stopping by.”
— Matthew Mazur5.0a month ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (754) 223-3104 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Nature Aquariums.