Royal Tropical Fish & Bird occupies a unique niche in Royal Oak, Michigan, combining a full freshwater fish operation with a dedicated bird department — plus a smattering of reptiles. It's the kind of place where you walk in for ghost shrimp and walk out with a cockatiel, and that dual identity has earned it a loyal following over more than two decades in the community. The freshwater selection is the main draw for aquarists.
Cichlid enthusiasts in particular will find plenty to browse — reviewers call out Blue Dolphins, Electric Blue Johanni, and a broad range of African cichlids that keep hobbyists coming back. The store also stocks harder-to-find invertebrates like bamboo shrimp alongside live plants, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone building out a planted tank or community setup. Tanks are generally well-labeled with species names and prices, which makes browsing easy and signals a level of organization that many local fish stores lack.
Staff knowledge is frequently praised, especially when it comes to helping customers choose compatible species and offering care advice. Ryan, in particular, gets shout-outs for friendly, hands-on assistance. The owner is described as genuinely passionate about both fish and birds, willing to spend time answering questions rather than just ringing up a sale.
It's worth noting that the store has gone through an ownership transition, and reviews from that period are mixed — some customers reported declining tank cleanliness and staffing issues. More recent feedback, however, trends positive, with visitors noting clean tanks, healthy fish, and a store that appears to be finding its footing again. Royal Tropical Fish & Bird isn't just a fish store; it's a neighborhood pet destination that serves a wide range of animal lovers in the Royal Oak area.
For freshwater hobbyists focused on cichlids or looking for a reliable local source of healthy livestock and supplies, it's a store that rewards repeat visits.
Ester Gold
Great store! Owner very knowledgeable about pet fish and bird varieties.
Rob Cholette
56 reviews
Friendly staff, quality supplies
landon Filzek
2 reviews
great fish selection
Ed Milkowski
Love this fish store answered all my questions and I just bought 3 blue dolphins and 3 blue electric Johanni…love these fish!!!
Jamie Bamberger
10 reviews
Great store and customer service! They had every fish I came for and even had a bamboo shrimp that are very hard to find. Great store
Ashley Langelier
10 reviews
This pet place has the best owner to cut bird nails and trim beaks. He is soooo awesome and I recommend anyone to go there for birds, fish, and possibly reptiles. He owns Something Fishy in Belleville as well. Go to him if you need anything done, especially birdies!!!!!!!
Mavrik Ferrell
Bought a few fish from Here, great selection very nice owner will return!
Rebecca F
EDIT/UPDATE: gave them one more chance cause I needed something and was hoping to see the store in better shape. It wasn't. Still has dirty tanks with dead fish and all the birds had empty food bowls. It was sad to see. They still don't have the pellets I need and was told to look somewhere else because they only feed "high qiality" pellets to their birds. I was looking for Harrison's. From now on, I'll be driving to a different place and leaving this store in my rear view mirror! ORIGINAL REVIEW: All these 5 star reviews just to get a discount at this store to hide the true ones. I don't know what happened but everything is dirty there's no bright family vibes. They carry good products but everything else seems pretty shaky. Fish tanks are dirty and half empty and over priced fish.
Ashley Boyles
36 reviews
The new owner is absolutely wonderful! Thank you for accommodating me! Bug is very happy!
Meegan Horenstein
15 reviews
Changed ownership!! They fired Lauren, the only person there that knew about birds(and cared)...as far as I'm concerned. Last time I took my bird there, they gave her back to me w blood on her wings, w no mention of it at all. When I returned I was told it's "normal". This is not normal. They don't care. I worry for their birds safety and yours if you take them there.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (248) 541-6600 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Royal Tropical Fish & Bird.
Take control of your listing to update info and respond to reviews.
Claim This ListingFind on Map
1324 Hartrick Ave, Royal Oak, MI 48067
February 7, 2026
Verified Data
Information verified through Google Places API and community contributions.
Other aquarium shops nearby worth checking out