About
Southern Aquatics in Roswell, Georgia has built a loyal following among metro Atlanta fishkeepers with its combination of healthy livestock, well-maintained tanks, and staff who genuinely enjoy educating customers. The store carries both freshwater and saltwater species, though reviewers note it currently leans more heavily toward the freshwater side. That said, saltwater hobbyists will find staples like ocellaris clownfish, live sand, and live rock ready to go.
The freshwater selection is where Southern Aquatics really shines. Live plants are a standout draw — multiple reviewers specifically mention the store's plant inventory, and aquascaping enthusiasts have called it a great resource for building planted tanks. The shop also stocks axolotls, bettas, and a range of tropical species, all kept in clean, uncrowded tanks where the fish visibly look healthy.
What comes through most consistently in reviews is the staff's willingness to spend real time with customers. Bryce has been singled out for walking newcomers through everything they need to know about planted setups, while Taylor has earned praise for her attentive, knowledgeable service. First-time fishkeepers and betta owners have described the experience as patient and welcoming, with staff answering every question without rushing.
One customer who bought their first betta rated the experience a perfect 10 out of 10. The store itself is on the smaller side, and some visitors note the variety can feel limited compared to larger operations. Staff have acknowledged a refresh is in the works, which suggests the selection and layout may be expanding.
Even so, multiple reviewers say they wished they had discovered Southern Aquatics before buying from big-box pet stores — a telling endorsement. For Roswell-area hobbyists looking for a local fish store where the livestock is healthy, the plants are thriving, and the staff will actually take time to help you succeed, Southern Aquatics delivers on every count.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Consultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Strong live plant selection ideal for aquascaping and planted tanks
- Both freshwater and saltwater livestock including ocellaris clownfish and live rock
- Clean, uncrowded tanks with visibly healthy fish
- Staff like Bryce and Taylor praised for patient, in-depth guidance
- Stocks specialty animals like axolotls and bettas
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Awesome selection. Great and knowledgeable service.”
— Ian Miles5.02 weeks ago“Great local fish store. They were so kind and helpful! (I wish we had known about this place before starting our aquarium from a bigger pet store.)”
— Amy Jo Robertson5.04 weeks ago“I'm new to the hobby and was met with very knowledgeable staff! Bryce(?) was very helpful and went over everything I needed to know, as well as answering all my questions. I'm definitely coming back here and super excited to plant my new plants!! Thank you guys:)”
— Mari L5.0a month ago“Taylor was fabulous. The store needs a refresh, and she said that is coming. For now, they are more freshwater.”
— Shane Reynolds4.0a month ago“Staff was very helpful with choosing fish. All the tanks are clean and aren't overcrowded. The fish look healthy. Lots of live plants too.”
— Laura McCray5.0a month ago“Great customer service”
— Calvin Mckinney5.0a month ago“Great experience! Love the service”
— Hunter Jake Harper5.02 months ago“Great, knowledgeable people with some really neat fish. I highly recommend them.”
— Patrick O'Hearn5.02 months ago“The prices here are terrible, the employees are rude, and the selection of plants and fish is very little! Do not waste your time.”
— Koorosh Torkaman1.02 months ago“Queen little shop, good customer service. But limited variety”
— Darrel Poston3.03 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (770) 686-7734 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Southern Aquatics Local Fish Store.