About
Tucked away on City Island in the Bronx, City Island Aquarium Tropical Fish Sales is the kind of neighborhood fish shop that feels like stepping back in time — in the best possible way. Owner Rob runs an old-school operation where every tank is meticulously maintained and the livestock is genuinely healthy. Multiple reviewers note that fish and invertebrates purchased here thrive at home, a testament to Rob's care behind the scenes.
The selection punches well above what you'd expect from a small storefront. Rob stocks both freshwater and saltwater species, with reviewers spotting everything from pike cichlids and puffers to cherry shrimp, bettas, mudskippers, frogs, and snails. One customer described a reef and tropical collection that rivals shops across the five boroughs, while another was simply "shocked" by the breadth of inventory.
If Rob doesn't have what you're looking for, reviewers say he'll personally source it for you. Live plants are part of the equation too. Rob keeps his bettas in planted setups with plenty of space — a detail that speaks volumes about his philosophy.
He's been known to hand customers stem plant cuttings and free duckweed to help their animals settle during transport. That generosity comes up again and again in reviews: reasonable prices, honest advice, and a willingness to spend real time explaining care requirements to anyone who asks. One particularly telling review comes from a fishkeeper who had repeated failures with freshwater shrimp purchased from big-box stores.
After buying cherry shrimp from Rob, every single one survived. That's not luck — that's proper quarantine, stable water parameters, and healthy stock from the start. For Bronx residents and City Island locals who've long had to trek elsewhere for quality aquarium livestock, Rob's shop fills a real gap.
The prices are fair, the fish are healthy, and the owner treats every customer like a fellow hobbyist. It's the kind of place you walk into for one fish and leave planning your next tank.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Consultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Owner Rob personally sources hard-to-find species on request
- Old-school shop with meticulously maintained tanks and healthy livestock
- Both freshwater and saltwater/reef species in stock
- Cherry shrimp, puffers, pike cichlids, bettas, mudskippers, and frogs available
- Live plants included with purchases to help fish acclimate during transport
From keepers
Customer reviews
“They have all types of exotic fish big and small. The owner is very kind, generous and knowledgeable. A must go if you love fish of any kind. He will get whatever you request and will personally choose aquarium friend you're looking for. He also has frogs, mudskippers, nails, and shrimp. Just try it out and see that he can get whatever you need”
— Nelson Rivera5.04 months ago“Amazing place. A variety of beautiful fish.”
— Lesley Charlene Robinson-Swoley5.04 months ago“Love this store,I always find what I need.the prices are great.Rob is a generous person always very Informative.”
— Carlos Laureano5.05 months ago“Owner was very nice guy”
— A H JONY5.06 months ago“Finally, we got a aquarium on City Island where I live, and it's a great one! I met Rob several times and he was so friendly and courteous. I made a few good purchases from this store and will continue to do business every chance I get. Thanks Rob!”
— John Bogdon5.07 months ago“This is a great place hands down!! Bought a couple fish from here including the cutest little puffer and now I’m a customer for life”
— Carlenis Lora5.09 months ago“The owner Rob is very knowledgeable and friendly! Ive purchased many fish over the years and they have all done well!”
— Edward Conway Jr5.0a year ago“Great store with a helpful owner and a wide variety of healthy fish!”
— Dan Eisenberg5.0a year ago“Beautiful store with a passionate owner. Robert is the best”
— Michael Lamarra5.0a year ago“Rob is an amazing person, takes the time to explain everything you ask, very knowledgeable and the prices are reasonable. Good healthy fish and plants. Highly recommend coming here first before any other fish stores !!”
— Victor T5.0a year ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (914) 303-3474 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting City Island Aquarium Tropical Fish Sales.