About
Tucked away in the rural town of Mardela Springs, Maryland, Pacific East Aquaculture is a destination saltwater shop that has earned a devoted following both locally and online. Run by the well-known Dr. Mac, the facility operates as an aquaculture farm and retail outlet specializing in corals, reef livestock, anemones, and marine invertebrates.
Don't let the quiet Eastern Shore location fool you — reviewers consistently describe the selection as "deceptively huge," with healthy, vibrant specimens that reflect serious care and expertise in coral propagation. The in-person experience is worth the drive. Walking through the facility reveals tank after tank of thriving corals and saltwater fish, all maintained under conditions that speak to Dr.
Mac's deep knowledge of reef husbandry. Customers frequently remark on how happy and healthy the livestock looks, a testament to the operation's aquaculture roots. The staff is approachable and genuinely helpful, making it a rewarding visit even if you're just browsing.
But Pacific East Aquaculture's reach extends well beyond Maryland's Eastern Shore. Their online store and shipping operation have made them a trusted source for reef keepers across the country. Multiple reviewers highlight the quality of their packaging — anemones arrive with plenty of water, carefully insulated and cushioned to minimize transit stress.
Communication throughout the ordering and shipping process is responsive and thorough, which matters enormously when live animals are in transit. Pricing is another consistent bright spot. For a specialty saltwater operation with this level of quality, customers find the cost reasonable, and the value unmistakable.
Whether you're stocking a new reef tank with your first anemone or adding uncommon corals to an established system, Pacific East delivers — literally and figuratively. It's a place where aquaculture expertise meets genuine passion for the hobby, and every review makes it clear the livestock reflects that dedication.
What they offer
Fish & livestock for sale at Pacific East Aquaculture in Mardela Springs, MD
Pacific East Aquaculture stocks corals, reef fish, anemones, invertebrates and saltwater fish for sale in Mardela Springs, MD.
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Online StoreShips FishDelivery
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Aquaculture farm with deceptively large selection of corals and reef livestock
- Run by the well-known Dr. Mac with deep reef husbandry expertise
- Excellent online store with careful live shipping of anemones and corals
- Reasonably priced saltwater livestock known for being healthy and vibrant
- Located in Mardela Springs, MD — worth the trip to Maryland's Eastern Shore
From keepers
Customer reviews
“I'm hesitant to share my new honey hole, but Dr Mac and Rachel deserve the word to be spread. I've been to all the saltwater fish/coral shops in the DMV area, this is hands down the best when it comes to coral selection and is simply not up for debate. Between the sheer amount of coral AND health/cleanliness of systems, they're a cut above the rest. Dr Mac is a wealth of information and very fair. I was in disbelief when I saw the amount of coral hidden away in this small, endearing Eastern Shore town. I literally couldn't stop smiling as I initially perused each row of frag tanks. If you're into coral, you'll feel like a kid in Willy Wonka's factory when you first walk in. It may not be around the corner from where you live, but I promise its worth the drive.”
— Kevin Voelling5.0a week ago“I first came to this store because my 40-oz tank was dying and I needed help. The lady at checkout and the gentleman working there were both incredible. They helped me clean and reset my tank and gave me clear instructions on how to take care of it. They really took the time to help me and answer all my questions. My tank improved after their help, and my husband and I were so impressed that I came back two weeks later to set up a 5-gallon tank for our beach house. We purchased 3 fish, different corals, snails, a starfish, and an urchin. We absolutely love this tank. It brings a relaxing beach vibe to our home and lifts our mood every time we see it. The lady and gentleman were knowledgeable, patient, and clearly passionate about what they do. I also purchased saltwater for a water change, and they even let me use one of their buckets when I didn't have one. That small act of kindness meant a lot and showed how much they care about their customers. I already can't wait to come back for more corals. Great service, wonderful people, and a beautiful selection of fish and coral. Highly recommend!”
— Elizaveta Broetsky5.03 weeks ago“Purchased some live rock and it was shipped fast, arrived in great shape, and was really clean. Some very minor breakage but that is to be expected. It looks great with the rock that I already had and now I wait for my tank to finish cycling! I will be ordering from Pacific East Aquaculture again!”
— Kelley Dentry5.02 months ago“Very helpful and quality product”
— Joel Swift5.0a month ago“This place is awesome”
— Jeremy Gavin5.08 months ago“Deceptively huge selection, folks are awesome, reasonably priced, worth the visit, these folks”
— Samuel Pearson III5.0Edited 10 months ago“Loved working with Pacific East! Delivery and shipping went smooth. Anemone was well packaged with plenty of water and arrived as described!”
— Ryan B5.0a year ago“Fantastic aquatic experience with Dr. Mac. Fish and corals are all incredibly happy and healthy!”
— Taylor Hartman5.0a year ago“Great communication and service. I purchased an anemone and I was worried about it being shipped, but it arrived timely and was packed with extra care. I highly recommend ordering from Pacific East Aquaculture.”
— Tommy Babiarz5.0a year ago“We have been customers at PEA for some time now. Dr. Mac is very knowledgeable and his corals are healthy. My entire tank is stocked with corals from PEA and I couldnt be happier. The prices are competative and its always a great experience getting corals and fish here. I would highly recomend doing buisness with Dr. Mac and his wife!”
— Jason Todorov5.0a year ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (410) 912-2300 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Pacific East Aquaculture.