Natural AquariumZ in Richmond, Kentucky occupies an interesting space in the local pet scene — a small, independently run shop that inspires strong loyalty among some customers and serious concern from others. At its best, the store offers a selection of freshwater fish, live plants, shrimp, reptiles (including bearded dragons and ball pythons), and small pets, staffed by owners who clearly enjoy talking shop and helping newcomers navigate their first tank setup. Several reviewers highlight the store's freshwater focus with appreciation.
One customer praised picking up a healthy Vallisneria Spiralis that had already produced runners, noting the store's interest in live plants and niche freshwater species. Others have purchased shrimp, various freshwater fish, and reptiles and report the animals thriving months later. The owners are repeatedly described as approachable and willing to spend time answering questions — one new fish owner recounted getting detailed guidance on tank sizing and stocking.
Staff have also helped customers troubleshoot problems like black algae outbreaks, offering practical solutions. The store reportedly quarantines incoming fish before selling them, which is a meaningful step for disease prevention. However, transparency demands acknowledging the other side.
A significant number of reviews raise troubling concerns about animal husbandry — dirty tanks, bare enclosures, and reports of sick kittens sold without disclosure of health issues. Multiple visitors describe unpleasant conditions for rodents and cats in particular, and one customer detailed a costly veterinary ordeal after purchasing a kitten with undiagnosed infections. The store's online information, including posted hours, has also been flagged as unreliable.
For Richmond-area freshwater hobbyists, Natural AquariumZ offers something valuable: a local source for fish, plants, and face-to-face advice in a region where options are limited. But prospective customers should visit in person, inspect animals carefully before purchasing, and come prepared to ask pointed questions about the health and origin of any animal they're considering bringing home.
Laura Fawcett
19 reviews
My girls and I love Natural AquariumZ! This place is amazing, and the owners are incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. Every visit is exciting, and my girls always have the best time. We recently bought three reptiles, and they were healthy, active, and well cared for. The owners took the time to answer all our questions and made sure we felt confident bringing them home. We can’t recommend Natural AquariumZ enough — we’ll definitely be back again and again!
John Murley
8 reviews
Great place. Really cool things inside.
Samantha Jones
Exceptional service!!
COUNTRY CLEANZ
17 reviews
Very nice people. They are easy to deal with and very honest and knowledgeable about fish and reptiles.
Tabbitha Tooth
mice and rats are in horrible condition, bedding soaked through with urine and water, lizards half dead from starvation. there's blood splatters here and there in the tank. genuinely don't understand how this place is still open
Diana Child
37 reviews
Decent selection of quality fish and reptiles. Very helpful and knowledgeable staff.
Arielynn Rollins
43 reviews
Rats had no water. When I asked why they didn’t have any water the girl at the counter said “they don’t like water”. They NEED water to survive. She told me they are not given any water, just pellets. I realize they’re just feeder rats, but you shouldn’t torture them. They had no shelter, no water, just a tiny bare tank with some wood shavings. Absolutely miserable. They also had 3 week old kittens and some older cats that all looked like they needed medical attention ASAP. Whoever is running this store is extremely uneducated. The store smells horrible and is very dirty. Interesting that the owner is always so defensive in their response to reviews (“please don’t hurt a small business by lying!”)…no one is lying, this place is gross and I don’t know how they’re still open. Maybe clean your store and take care of the animals you have for sale? Folks, do not spend a dime here (not that they had much in the way of actual merchandise anyway!) DISGUSTING
Mark Day
Nice people. Cool place
Abby Wild
25 reviews
i wish i could give this place 0 stars for how disgusting it was
Emma Watson
3 reviews
The fish tanks were extremely shocking to see, very green dirty water with way too many dead snails/fish. There was a foul smell through the whole store!!! Fish in bare tanks that are way too small, rodents stuffed into cages that are too small, snakes with nothing to do, etc. Cannot believe this store is up and running.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (859) 353-8080 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Natural AquariumZ.
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2009 Merchant Dr, Richmond, KY 40475
February 7, 2026
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