Tucked away in small-town Mapleton, Iowa, Loess Hills Pet Collective has become a regional draw for fishkeepers and reptile enthusiasts willing to drive an hour or more to browse its surprisingly deep inventory. Owner Jacob has built something unusual for rural western Iowa — a proper aquatics and exotics shop stocking both freshwater and saltwater fish, corals, and a rotating cast of hard-to-find species that keep regulars coming back weekly. The fish selection spans enough ground to satisfy serious hobbyists.
Reviewers mention picking up figure 8 puffers that thrived months later, bettas sold with thorough care information, and saltwater livestock including corals and clownfish (yes, you can "Find Nemo" here). Jacob seems to keep the stock fresh, with customers noting new arrivals on a regular basis, including species they describe as uncommon. The tanks are consistently described as clean and well-maintained, and the fish healthy — details that matter more than flashy signage.
Beyond the aquatics side, the store carries a solid reptile section with bearded dragons, pacman frogs, tarantulas, hermit crabs, and all the associated supplies — heat lamps, feeders like crickets and roaches, and full setup gear. For reptile owners in the area, having a local source for weekly feeder insects alone saves a long drive to Omaha or Sioux City. What comes through most clearly in reviews is Jacob's willingness to talk shop.
Customers describe extended conversations about care, setup, and species selection. He walks people through purchases with genuine enthusiasm, and multiple reviewers highlight how informative he is — particularly valuable for newer keepers making their first bearded dragon or saltwater purchase. A few visitors noted occasional impatience during busy moments, but the overwhelming consensus is that this is a store run by someone who genuinely cares about the animals.
For anyone in the Loess Hills region looking for quality livestock, supplies, or just solid advice, this Mapleton shop punches well above its small-town weight class.
June Riley
8 reviews
Bought a beta from here, so informative, will defiantly being going back
Chiara Kuhlman
Absolutely love this place! Owner is super friendly and always willing to help out, if you ever stop by Mapleton this place is definitely worth taking the time to check out!
Kaylee Oberreuter
First time experience there, and I came home with a beautiful bearded dragon. The store was clean and the help was so friendly, and patient with all of my questions! Definitely recommend!
Peggy Henschen
13 reviews
I am so glad to have this store near me. As the owner of 3 reptiles, I make weekly purchases of crickets and roaches to feed my pets. When I had a reptile heat lamp go out, I was able to shop close to home and avoid a trip to the city. If you have a fish or reptile question, this should be a go to store for you.
Raul Barrientos
9 reviews
One stop shop for all your fish/reptile needs. Very knowledgeable staff. All the animals in here looked healthy and well taken care of. You can “Find Nemo” here!
Wendy L
63 reviews
When I walked into the reptile area I was horrified. There were those reptile wood chips in most of the tanks. The pacman frog was sitting in soggy wood chips, with no heat that I could see. The tank next to him had a dead hermit crab (in wood chips) and what looked like a dead frog stuck between the tank and the wall. And no it was not a shed exoskeleton, I kept hermit crabs for years and know the difference. The fish tanks were filthy. I am sorry, but in this day and age with all the access to information about proper husbandry there is no excuse for these animals to be in these conditions. This guy needs to do some research, join some Facebook/Reddit groups and fix this. I bought the pacman frog, I couldn't leave him in there. Upon inspection there is no sigh of red leg syndrome, but he doesn't use his back legs properly. I am hoping with the proper setup and diet I can correct this. My advice for anyone buying anything from him, do your own research and have the animal vet checked if possible.
Adrianna Penhale
5 reviews
This store is FANTASTIC!! My dad and I swung by to take a look, and we are so glad we did! The critters are so cool (especially love the tarantulas and reptiles!) and the animals are so well cared for! This place is DEFINITELY worth visiting! We will definitely be back!
pretty song
2 reviews
It was amazing
Sherri Goff
5 reviews
Wonderful store, Jacob is very helpful and knowledgeable about the Pets he sells. A bit of a drive from Papillion but well worth it.We purchased a beautiful green IRN
bryan rosburg
19 reviews
Great guy healthy fish
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (712) 420-3161 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Loess Hills Pet Collective.
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517 Main St, Mapleton, IA 51034
February 7, 2026
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