About
Tucked away on a dead-end road in Richmond Hill, New York, Tri-County Tropicals operates out of a warehouse that most people would drive right past — and that's part of its mystique. There's no flashy storefront, no website, and no sign to speak of. You ring a buzzer, someone comes to the door, and then you step into what one reviewer aptly called "fish heaven": a sprawling warehouse reportedly housing around 900 tanks of freshwater and saltwater fish.
The discus selection is what draws serious hobbyists from across the five boroughs and beyond. An entire wall is dedicated to discus varieties — white, yellow, and more — with full-grown adults averaging four inches and priced around $100 each. Multiple reviewers attest to the health and longevity of fish purchased here, with one noting their discus were still thriving two years later.
That's a meaningful endorsement in a hobby where livestock quality can be hit or miss. Beyond discus, the warehouse stocks a broad range of freshwater tropical fish and live plants, and they carry saltwater fish as well. Inventory moves fast, so regular visits are rewarded.
The staff is knowledgeable and willing to take time explaining which fish are doing well and offering care pointers — though a few reviewers have noted some encounters with brusque attitudes. It's a no-frills, wholesale-style operation: come in knowing roughly what you want, and you'll leave with healthy fish at fair prices. A few practical notes: Tri-County Tropicals is cash only, and their hours lean toward midday — noon to 3 PM is the recommended window.
Finding the location can be genuinely challenging, so map it carefully before heading out. Phone responsiveness has been inconsistent according to some visitors. For aquarists in the New York City area who prioritize livestock quality over retail polish, this Richmond Hill warehouse delivers.
The discus alone make it a destination worth seeking out, and the sheer scale of the operation — hundreds of tanks across a cavernous space — is something no chain store can replicate.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- DiscusLive Plants
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Massive warehouse facility with reportedly 900 tanks
- Exceptional discus fish selection with an entire wall dedicated to varieties
- Healthy, long-lived fish — customers report discus thriving for 2+ years
- Both freshwater and saltwater fish plus live plants
- Affordable to mid-range pricing with fast-moving inventory
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Freshwater and saltwater fish. Affordable prices and fish runs out quickly. Entire warehouse of fish and plants.”
— Zeshan Khan5.0a year ago“This was a great experience. I wished I got the gentleman name that assisted me. I’ve been on the search for white and yellow discus fish and to my surprise they had those and so much more. He took the time to explain which one is doing well and give me some good pointers. Price was about average as other much known aquariums around the area. Totally recommend. Also note- they only accept cash.”
— Vishal Singh5.02 years ago“They have fish but whoever work in the place are very nasty attitude. I simply ask who can help me to purchase. The guy told me what do you want in very rude way. If you cannot handle the job, go to McDonald’s.”
— shanju islam1.02 years ago“Great local fish store. The go to place for my fresh water aquarium. They also have salt water fish as well. Nice friendly guy”
— cary8885.02 years ago“Always nice fish. But l which they toke a credit card.”
— Kiko M.4.02 years ago“It has been there since I was born and I never even knew about it.”
— SKNY 19965.04 years ago“Great spot, nice people”
— John S5.04 years ago“Genial”
— KATTDJ Pacheco5.06 years ago“ahhm; is it me and my paranoid self, or do others see what I see, (absolutely nothing) it almost looks like a death trap. and they recommend from noon till 3:00 pm. Humm; now look at the photos, two, I repeat, two. one looks like a fish tank from some ones home. and the other photo looks like a dead end. can any one see a store front in that photo ? now look at the reviews, one says, awesome experience. (in the street, or one of those whorehouses).second, hands down best place.(those are words people use to lure you somewhere ) third, fish that swims right side up. ( would`nt that mean it`s dead?) but then again, it could be me.”
— Gerardo Acevedo1.06 years ago“u unfriendly”
— EUGENE RAY3.06 years ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (718) 849-5500 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Tri-County Tropicals, Inc..