About
Aquatic Pets in Wichita, Kansas has quickly established itself as the go-to aquarium store in the region, drawing visitors from as far as Manhattan, Kansas who consider it a highlight of their trip. The store makes a striking first impression with beautifully maintained display tanks, including a showstopping cylindrical cardinal tetra tank near the entrance that stops visitors in their tracks. The livestock selection spans both freshwater and saltwater, with healthy fish that reviewers consistently note look better than big-box alternatives.
On the freshwater side, you'll find everything from bichirs and red honey gouramis to guppies, discus (including a mating pair spotted by one visitor), and algae-eating plecos alongside driftwood for their dietary needs. The saltwater section is equally compelling — staff member Mark has earned a devoted following for walking customers through the entire reef-keeping journey, from live rock cycling timelines to coral and anemone compatibility. The store also stocks live plants and invertebrates like assassin snails, and their team has earned a reputation for solid axolotl care advice.
Staff knowledge is the consistent thread running through nearly every review. Mark, Wes, and store manager Drip each get called out by name for patience and genuine enthusiasm. One customer came in planning to buy a few freshwater fish and left with a complete saltwater setup after Mark walked them through every step of the process — rocks, coral, anemones, fish compatibility, and realistic expectations for the first year.
That kind of hands-on consultation is hard to find. The store runs a rewards program that regulars appreciate, and quarantine tanks are visible on the sales floor — a detail that signals real commitment to livestock health. Equipment, filters, pumps, tubing, and fish food round out the inventory.
Prices run slightly above chain stores, but customers consistently say the quality of fish and personalized service more than justify the difference. For Wichita's aquarium community, this is the real deal.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- ConsultationQuarantine
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Stunning display tanks including a cylindrical cardinal tetra showpiece
- Comprehensive freshwater and saltwater livestock selection
- Staff members Mark, Wes, and Drip praised by name for exceptional guidance
- Visible quarantine tanks demonstrating commitment to fish health
- Customer rewards program for repeat shoppers
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Super rude people! The place was gorgeous, but I heard they’re closing and moving right around the corner. Still associated with exotic pets. We will never step foot in there again because of the horrific customer service and how rude they are to potential customers. Pitiful.”
— Mary S.1.05 months ago“They were so helpful in discussing the best fish combinations, filters & food. I love my new bichir!!”
— Chelsea Woodland5.07 months ago“Is your fish shop hiring?”
— Tuong Vo5.0Edited 7 months ago“The owner was really friendly and an extreme help.”
— P Gee5.07 months ago“Large variety of freshwater fish.”
— Gary Dezotell5.08 months ago“Came in today bought algae fish excellent help and thanks helping me with the wood he will need to eat on very clean best fish store in Kansas I been in .”
— Ann5.08 months ago“Great selection of fish and products”
— jon green5.08 months ago“Best Aquatic pet store in the area”
— Iron Manning5.08 months ago“Awesome place to check out. Have lots of cool aquatic pets for sale and on display. The staff is very friendly and helpful.”
— Nick Raffety5.09 months ago“SHOUT OUT TO MARK He was so helpful and so patient. We walked in thinking we would just get a few small fresh water fish and ended up leaving with an entire set up for saltwater. He explained all the steps to start, the time frame, what to expect through the next week/month/year etc. He helped us figure out what fish play well together, what fish we could get for our tank size, and when to get them - rocks, coral, anemone and more. Very passionate, very knowledgeable, as well as a great salesman. I hope this gets him a raise or something.”
— Jessi Eldred5.09 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (316) 440-4040 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aquatic Pets - Wichita Aquarium.