About
88 Pet World is a long-running independent pet store in Brick Township, New Jersey, occupying a unique niche as one of the few dedicated aquarium and exotic pet shops in the area. The store features a dedicated fish tank room that loyal customers genuinely love, stocked with a freshwater selection that regulars say outpaces anything else nearby. You'll find species you wouldn't expect at a local shop — archerfish, for instance — alongside the usual community fish, bettas, and live feeders for reptile owners.
The shop carries a broad range of tanks, equipment, and supplies, along with specialty brands like Fromm pet food. Beyond fish, 88 Pet World stocks birds, reptiles, rodents, and other small animals, giving it a classic mom-and-pop pet store feel that stands apart from the big-box chains. Long-time customers praise the staff's willingness to spend time answering questions and offering advice, whether it's about fish care or raising a hitchhiker anole that traveled up from Florida.
Several reviewers note that the team genuinely knows their animals and products, and many appreciate the personal attention you simply won't get at a PetSmart or Petco. That said, 88 Pet World is a store that divides opinion. Some customers have reported issues with fish health after purchase, including parasites introduced to established tanks.
Others point out that pricing runs noticeably higher than big-box competitors — a sore point for experienced fishkeepers who know market rates. The owner's demeanor has also drawn criticism in a few encounters, even from customers who otherwise praise the rest of the staff. The store's strengths lie in its freshwater fish selection, knowledgeable employees, and the kind of specialized inventory that only a dedicated local shop can offer.
For Brick Township residents who want a real fish room to browse and staff who can talk specifics, 88 Pet World remains a relevant stop — just come prepared to ask questions and inspect livestock carefully before buying.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Large dedicated fish tank room with extensive freshwater selection
- Carries unusual species like archerfish
- Live feeder fish and reptile food available
- Local independent pet store serving Brick Township for years
- Carries Fromm pet food and other specialty brands
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Great ma & pop pet store.”
— Rick Kap5.0a day ago“Great pet shop!! If you don’t see what you are looking for just ask. I was able to get exactly what I needed, the process was efficient and I’ll definitely be a return customer. I have always had fantastic customer service at 88 Pet World.”
— Jane Kelly5.02 days ago“If you want Fromm pet food and advice from some knowledgeable people this is a great place to go!”
— John Tracy4.05 days ago“Great local pet shop they even have archerfish”
— Shaul5.0a month ago“Always a great experience. Staff if friendly and knowledgeable. Good selection of pets and supplies”
— Christopher Bettinger5.0a month ago“Lots of tanks and supplies but low on animals”
— keith fisher3.0a month ago“Very nice employees. Very knowledgeable”
— Robyn R5.0Edited 2 months ago“Customer service and friendly vibes 👎👎”
— Avigdor Herskowitz1.03 months ago“If I could give a 0 I would. Absolutely terrible experience. Every single fish we bought from 88 Pet World died within less than a week. Even worse, the fish we purchased introduced parasites into our previously healthy aquarium, which ended up killing everything in the tank. I have videos and pictures clearly showing the parasites moving around the tank after introducing the new fish – proof of the contamination caused by this store’s livestock. It’s clear that the animals at this store are not well taken care of. Many looked sickly, stressed, or completely neglected. This kind of disregard for animal welfare is unacceptable. We will never be back, and I would strongly warn others against buying any animals from this place. Save yourself the heartbreak and money – go elsewhere.”
— isabella disorco1.04 months ago“I’ve been in fish keeping for quite some time now and I’ve been to many stores online and in person. This store is extremely overpriced by like four times. The only reason they charge what they do is because there are no other stores in the vicinity that sell similar fish. A bit greedy in my opinion.”
— Ari Reich3.04 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (732) 899-1920 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting 88 Pet World.