About
Tucked into Great Valley, New York, Ellicottville Aquatics LLC is a family-run operation that has evolved into a sprawling multi-department retail destination — part pet store, part outdoor outfitter, and even part ice cream stop. At its core, though, the aquatics department remains the draw for fish enthusiasts across the region, with customers regularly driving an hour or more to browse the selection. The freshwater section features a solid lineup of community tank staples — neon tetras, guppies, gouramis, and various guppy patterns — alongside freshwater plants and snails for planted tank enthusiasts.
The saltwater side carries corals, live rock, and marine fish, and at least one customer credited the staff with helping them set up a complete saltwater system, including an in-home installation. That kind of hands-on service, from tank setup to ongoing consultation, sets this store apart from big-box alternatives in the surrounding area. Staff member Skyler gets regular shoutouts for product knowledge and genuine helpfulness, and the owner is frequently praised for honest pricing and willingness to answer endless questions.
The dry goods aisles stock filters, equipment, medications, and fish food across several shelving rows — enough to satisfy most freshwater and saltwater needs without ordering online. Beyond aquatics, the store houses a reptile department with bearded dragons, tortoises, geckos, and more, plus birds like parakeets and small mammals including hedgehogs. The recent expansion into hunting, fishing tackle, and firearms has been a double-edged sword — some longtime customers feel the pet side has lost a step as attention shifts to the new departments.
A handful of reviewers have also flagged concerns about animal health and enclosure conditions, so inspecting livestock carefully before purchase is wise. For aquarists in the Great Valley and Ellicottville corridor, this store fills a genuine gap. The coral selection, freshwater variety, and willingness to do in-home installations make it worth the trip, especially if you catch the staff on a good day.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- In-home saltwater tank setup and installation service
- Coral and live rock selection for saltwater reef hobbyists
- Freshwater plants and snails for planted tank setups
- Staff member Skyler praised for knowledgeable fish guidance
- Regional destination — customers drive 1+ hours to shop
From keepers
Customer reviews
“His feeder fish has ick I added no other fish to my tanks has my fish started eating the feeders I noticed white spots on my fish I treated them but it was too late”
— David Hogestyn2.0a week ago“my redheaded buddy works there and he's a hoot but this place has everything you need for the fishes. Prices seem reasonable across the board and I am not a huge aquatics guru by any means but this store would be the one to change that. They have filters, fresh and salt water equipment, numerous species and a few rows of shelves filled with stuff.”
— Vincent Sluga5.02 months ago“Not the greatest place! They have a decent dry goods selection.....but not much in the way of saltwater ......also!!! Very unprofessional!!! Nothing pisses you more than when you fly all the way to a place on friday..... for them to be closed 15 mins. Early!!!!! My last resort!”
— jeremy Rung1.02 months ago“It was closed when I stopped at the ice cream place but I would love to come and look again when it's open looked nice inside”
— Tammy Furlow5.04 months ago“I bought a hedgehog from this place not too long ago. They had him in horrible conditions, even for a pet store- and I've had to take him to multiple vet appointment since. They didnt inform me that his nails were overgrown or his eye was damaged, and he appears to be very sick. 200 dollars for a sick pet is ridiculous.”
— Cassie Boggs1.07 months ago“Bad place”
— Rhonda Miller1.07 months ago“Amazing staff”
— Larena Attwell5.08 months ago“Nice remodel.”
— turtlehen5.010 months ago“Always have the supplies we need for the reptiles. Knowledgeable staff and able to assist across the store”
— Emily B5.0a year ago“Doing renovations. Looks like they are passing out the pet store in place of an ice cream shop, gun shop, and fitness center. Was quite disappointed.”
— Kelly Jones2.0a year ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (716) 265-2857 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Ellicottville Aquatics LLC. Pet Store.