About
Crowned Aquatics Pet Supply is the kind of independent aquarium store that earns weekly regulars across the Des Moines metro, and a visit to Johnston, IA makes it easy to see why. Owner Justin and his wife run the shop with a hands-on care that customers describe over and over: tanks kept genuinely clean, fish that arrive home happy and healthy, and an owner who remembers you by name even after you've been away for a year and a half. Freshwater is the heart of the place.
Bettas here live in proper planted tanks rather than plastic cups, and shoppers regularly cross town for them — quality bettas for sale in Johnston, IA that you simply won't find at the big chains. Justin's live plant knowledge runs deep, and reviewers credit him with steering them toward the right species for their specific setup. You'll also find vibrant rummy-nose tetras, cherry shrimp, and axolotls available in Johnston, IA, plus the kind of hard-to-find, fast-moving stock that rewards timing your visit right after a fresh restock.
The shop carries saltwater fish too, so it serves both freshwater and reef-curious keepers near me. What sets Crowned apart is the conversation. When an ich outbreak hits, Justin knows exactly which treatment to reach for; when you're planning a new tank, he'll walk you through it without upselling.
People mention bringing their kids in just to say hello to Moe, the resident giant iguana and unofficial store mascot. Beyond livestock, the shelves hold reptile supplies, crickets, driftwood, rocks, and well-chosen aquarium dry goods. The store recently moved to the suite next door and has been settling into the fresh space, and longtime customers say the new setup is looking great.
For anyone in Johnston or the greater Des Moines area keeping freshwater or saltwater tanks, Crowned Aquatics is a local fish store worth the drive — and a reminder of why people shop local.
What they offer
Fish & livestock for sale at Crowned Aquatics Pet Supply in Johnston, IA
Crowned Aquatics Pet Supply stocks betta fish, rare and hard-to-find species, shrimp, axolotls, tetras, aquarium plants and freshwater & saltwater fish for sale in Johnston, IA. As an aquarium store serving Johnston, IA, it also carries aquarium equipment and offers aquarium consultations, aquarium setup and tank maintenance.
- Livestock & products
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Bettas kept in proper planted tanks instead of plastic cups — a standout draw in the Des Moines metro
- Owner Justin and his wife are knowledgeable, patient, and remember regulars by name
- Healthy freshwater and saltwater stock including rummy-nose tetras, cherry shrimp, and axolotls
- Strong live plant selection with hands-on guidance for planted tank setups
- Moe the giant iguana is a beloved resident store pet; the shop recently moved into a new suite next door
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Please update your hours on Google or your website because there’s people that drive an hour plus one way to come see your store and then discover it’s only open Thursday through Saturday. Thank you.”
— Reviewing Amethyst4.02 weeks ago“Everyone is complaining about the algae but when you go in you can tell all the fish are happy and healthy. Algae is only a problem when the fish are affected but other than that it will help with nitrate levels and givin that the store is in JOHNSTON your going to have nitrates. Owners a nice guy, decent selection of fish, only complaint would be not very many “nano species””
— Young Grizz5.03 weeks ago“We absolutely love this store! Even after moving almost 30 minutes away, we still make the drive because no other place compares. They always have the healthiest, most beautiful plants, and you can truly tell how much care and passion the owners put into everything they do. The owners are some of the sweetest, most caring people you’ll meet. They’ve gone out of their way to teach my son so much about fish over the years, and that kindness and patience has meant a lot to us. At 16, this is genuinely one of the first places he wants to spend his paycheck when he gets one — which says everything about how special this place is. If you’re looking for knowledgeable owners, healthy plants and fish, and a business that truly cares about its customers, this is the place. We’re so thankful to have found them!”
— Amanda HARRIS-5.0a month ago“Good place”
— Darcey Kellogg5.0Edited a month ago“This is hands down the best fish store in iowa”
— Anchor Fist5.02 months ago“I had a good experience, they have a good variety of fish. I gave a 4 instead of 5 star because some fish weren't labeled or priced on the tank.”
— Randall Price4.02 months ago“Helpful staff and owner, sad about the downsize but understanding, hope to keep seeing and collecting great fish quality and variety!”
— Alexander Wertheim5.02 months ago“Recently went looking for a betta found 2 I liked bought one on Sunday and went back and bought the other a couple days later. Justin and staff always great you when you walk in the door are willing to help answer questions and give suggestions and recommendations. It’s so nice to see Betta’s in an actual tank and not in little plastic cups. I will for sure be making this my first stop when looking for pet things before giving my money to the big chain stores. Highly recommend visiting here for anyone!”
— Chad Jones5.02 months ago“He was in the process of resetting the store after a move to the suite nextdoor. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Lovely large iguana as the store pet. If you're looking for an axolotl they have them! Well stocked on aquarium supplies.”
— Rebecca Johnson5.03 months ago“The owner was very pleasant. Answered a bunch of questions that we had. He was very kind to our children as well - they absolutely loved their visit. The inventory all appeared well cared for and healthy despite the recent move and renovations.”
— Cameron Giddings5.03 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (515) 954-8668 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Crowned Aquatics Pet Supply.