About
Tucked away in the small town of Paoli, Indiana, Purple Moon Aquatics LLC has quickly become a destination worth the drive for freshwater hobbyists across the region. Run by owner Mark (with Josh also on hand), this compact shop punches well above its weight with an impressive variety of freshwater fish, live plants, and aquarium supplies — all backed by the kind of genuine, unhurried expertise that big-box stores simply can't match. The store stocks Aquarium Co-op products, a detail that immediately signals its commitment to quality gear favored by serious hobbyists.
Customers consistently note the competitive pricing — one reviewer picked up khuli loaches, snails, and java moss for less than they'd paid elsewhere. The live plant selection draws particular praise, and while the shop may not always have every species in stock (shrimp, for instance, can sell out), the team is happy to place special orders and deliver exactly what's described. What truly sets Purple Moon apart is the owner's approach to customer interaction.
He'll walk you through setting up a bioactive bowl for fish and shrimp, explain care requirements in detail, and spend as much time answering questions as you need — no rush, no pressure. For newcomers just getting into the hobby, this kind of patient guidance is invaluable. For experienced fishkeepers, the depth of knowledge and willingness to source specific species makes this a reliable go-to shop.
The space itself is small — this isn't a warehouse operation — but every tank is well-maintained, with fish described as vibrant and healthy. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, the kind of place where you walk in as a customer and leave feeling like part of a community. Purple Moon Aquatics proves that a great fish store doesn't need to be massive; it just needs someone behind the counter who genuinely cares about the hobby and the people in it.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Tank SetupConsultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Carries Aquarium Co-op products
- Competitive pricing on fish, plants, and supplies
- Owner provides in-depth consultations on tank setup and bioactive bowls
- Will special order any fish or shrimp not currently in stock
- Strong selection of freshwater fish and live plants
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Very knowledgeable and friendly. Answered questions and was very personable. Competitive pricing. Will be heading here once we start setting up our tank.”
— Rauko Arisha5.03 weeks ago“I was very happy with my experience at Purple Moon. He had everything I needed and was very helpful and knowledgeable about any questions I had. Will definitely be going back! Great selection of plants and fish and will order anything he doesn’t have!”
— Patty Maudlin5.02 months ago“Nice fish store. Definitely worth the drive. Super knowledgeable super nice. I definitely will be back.”
— jl 5005.02 months ago“Omg what a cool store in such a small town and they carry Aquarium coop products so you know they got high standards. They have soooo many types of fish. I can't wait to come back. The store owner was very knowledgeable and so welcoming.”
— Nini5.02 months ago“Owner is super knowledgeable, great selection and if they dont have it they can order it. They offer a great selection on aquarium products. Go check them out!”
— alisa goodman5.0Edited 4 months ago“Super great owner! Helped me learn more about how to set up a bioactive bowl for fish and shrimp. Very knowledgeable about it and didn't mind giving me a lot of advice about it. So glad to have him in the community and can't wait to see more.”
— Anna Sneed5.05 months ago“It's getting kind of hard to buy fish any place anymore cuz Walmart doesn't do it so it took a little bit of look. But I did find a place in Paoli Indiana. It's a really nice play. A little place just opened up called purple Moon, aquatics and exotics. I spoke for the young man in there who was very helpful. I ordered some fish. They came in as described. He answered many questions. It was very helpful. I think people should check it out. If you're wanting to get into the hobby, give it a look”
— Michael Keefe5.06 months ago“The owner truly cares about his customers and is incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and respectful. The fish are always vibrant and healthy, which speaks volumes about the quality of care they receive. I’m really grateful to have discovered this wonderful place—it feels like a hidden treasure!”
— Mary Jane Padron5.08 months ago“Didn't have Aquatic soil and not a very big selection of fish. Place is small.”
— Nina Berger3.09 months ago“They love to help with all your aquatic needs.”
— andrew goodman5.0Edited 9 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (812) 788-2328 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Purple Moon Aquatics LLC.