Aquastetics

Aquastetics in Fall River, Massachusetts has quietly built a reputation as one of the premier aquascaping destinations in New England — the kind of place people willingly drive two hours to visit. Run by Nick and his mother Kris, this family-owned shop is laser-focused on the planted freshwater aquarium hobby, and that focus shows in every detail. The store is packed with aquascaping essentials: driftwood, hardscape stone, aquasoils, carpeting plants, and an impressive range of both cultured and submerged aquatic plants alongside terrarium varieties.

Equipment from serious brands like ADA, UNS, and OASE lines the shelves — gear you simply won't find at chain pet stores. Their CO2 offerings are a particular standout, with complete kits, diffusers, cylinders, and a tank-swapping service that keeps planted tank enthusiasts coming back regularly. The fish selection skews toward interesting freshwater species sourced partly through local breeders, giving shoppers access to healthy, locally raised stock rather than mass-shipped imports.

Reviewers rave about the quality — many report never losing a fish purchased here. You'll find shrimp (both neocaridina and caridina varieties), bettas including striking Super Delta Koi specimens, algae eaters, guppies, and the kind of oddball freshwater fish that collectors hunt for. Live food cultures round out the livestock offerings.

What truly sets Aquastetics apart is the depth of knowledge Nick and Kris bring to every interaction. Customers describe staff spending hours explaining the nuances of aquasoil selection, CO2 requirements for specific carpeting plants, and the differences between shrimp species. The display tanks throughout the store serve as living proof of their expertise — naturally designed aquascapes filled with lush plants and healthy fish that inspire visitors to level up their own setups.

Pricing is consistently described as reasonable for the quality, especially compared to online retailers. For anyone in the Fall River area or greater Boston region serious about freshwater planted tanks and aquascaping, Aquastetics delivers an experience no big-box store can touch.