ABC Reefs in Solvay, New York has built a reputation as one of the area's most dedicated aquatic shops, and it shows the moment you step inside. Owner Aliss runs a tight ship — tanks are crystal clear, fish are healthy and well-fed, and corals and anemones display vibrant color with visible new growth. It's the kind of store where the husbandry speaks for itself.
The shop carries both freshwater and saltwater livestock with impressive range. On the freshwater side, you'll find community staples like cherry barbs, moonlight gouramis, hillstream loaches, and mystery snails alongside live plants like water lettuce and anubias. But ABC Reefs also stocks niche species that set it apart — goodeids, mud skippers, pygmy sunfish, and African dwarf frogs show up on the shelves, the kind of inventory that signals a shop run by true fish enthusiasts rather than generic retailers.
One customer was thrilled to stumble upon a large pleco perfect for their turtle tank. The saltwater section features corals, anemones, live rock, and a selection of marine fish and invertebrates, all kept in species-compatible setups that reflect careful attention to stocking practices. The display tanks throughout the store serve as both inspiration and proof of concept for what healthy aquariums can look like.
Pricing draws consistent praise, with customers noting reasonable costs and price matching. The shop also carries used aquariums and gear, making it easier to get into the hobby without breaking the bank. Staff members are frequently singled out for their patience and willingness to answer questions at length — Aliss in particular is described as constantly in motion, helping customers while keeping the store in top shape.
One customer drove over an hour to shop here and left thrilled with how carefully their fish were packaged for the trip home. That kind of detail — the care taken not just in selling fish but in making sure they arrive safely — is what keeps people coming back to ABC Reefs.
Deborah Haynes
This fish store is fantastic! Aliss is very knowledgeable and patient. She is constantly on the move helping customers and taking care of her store. The store has freshwater and salt water aquariums and all the tanks are very clear and well taken care of. Aliss goes above and beyond to help. I love going to this store.
Jeanette Durkin
309 reviews
This place is awesome! They have everything you could possibly need for aquatic pets! The staff member was very helpful and knowledgeable!!
Mary Ann Carney
30 reviews
Very knowledgeable staff!
Stephen Lambeth
35 reviews
I've been here a couple times so far. One of the best aquatic shops I've ever visited. They have a good selection of fish both fresh water and salt water. Fish are well cared for and the shop is easy to navigate. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable. I will continue to shop here and hope for many years of business with them... Updated 11-19-2025 Fish are doing great and happy. The water lettuce I got from ABC has gone crazy in my tank and the anubius has been split into 3 separate plants now. The 30 gallon in the picture is stocked with a moonlight gourami, hillstream loach, mystery snails, and cherry barbs all from ABC Reefs...
Jerry Febles
7 reviews
Good friendships and good place.
Allis Bolt
2 reviews
As soon as you walk in the door, it’s clear that the staff takes a lot of care in their livestock husbandry. The tanks are clean. The fish are healthy and well fed. The corals and anemones are vibrant and most show signs of new growth. Fish and inverts are kept with compatible species. Whether you’re a beginner hobbyist or someone returning to the hobby, ABC Reefs has something for everyone. Their prices are very reasonable and they offer price matching. Totally worth checking them out!
W iM
184 reviews
This place use to be the top of the line, stopped in today as I am getting back into the hobby and it was very disappointing. I couldn't find one tank doing well as far as saltwater went. The corals were super pricey and dying. I couldn't believe my eyes.
Jeff
2 reviews
Do not trust this shop. They mark up 3x what they pay and say they’ll help you to only low ball you on any resell. Better off buying everything online
Eliza Cresler
63 reviews
Will 100% recommend and go back! Employees were friendly and knew what they were talking about. They packaged up my fish beautifully to get home safe on my over an hour drive. The store is clean fish are well taken care of very reasonable pricing. EXTREMELY happy with my experience and fishies!!
Alexander Bell
Manager was super helpful and knowledgeable! All the animals are super well cared for and lived there with an amazing staff. Can’t wait to go back
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (315) 882-0778 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting ABC Reefs.
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Geddes Plaza, 527 Charles Ave, Solvay, NY 13209
February 7, 2026
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