Under The Sea Aquatics sits in Seneca, South Carolina, and operates as one of only two Aquarium Co-Op partnered stores in the entire state — a distinction that signals serious commitment to the fishkeeping hobby. Owned and run by Jackie and David, the shop packs a remarkable amount of livestock and supplies into what multiple visitors describe as a "hole in the wall" space. Row after row of meticulously maintained tanks hold freshwater and saltwater fish, live plants, shrimp, snails, and corals, with the owners testing each tank daily and using dedicated nets to prevent cross-contamination.
The freshwater selection draws particular praise, from kuhli loaches that Jackie will personally call you about when they arrive, to healthy bettas and a rotating variety of community fish. Live plants are displayed inside working aquascapes throughout the store, giving customers a clear picture of how they'll look in their own setups. On the saltwater side, corals and marine livestock round out the inventory.
The shop also sells used equipment alongside new gear, offering budget-friendly options for hobbyists building or upgrading tanks. Water testing is a regular service — regulars like one married couple mentioned stopping in weekly to have their aquarium water checked and browsing whatever new fish and plants had arrived. Staff knowledge is consistently highlighted: reviewers describe detailed guidance on tank mates, plant care products, and species compatibility.
One family spent an hour asking questions with a research-savvy kid and left with fish, shrimp, snails, and plants, all reportedly thriving afterward. The store's most polarizing aspect is a posted dress code that has led to confrontations and a wave of negative reviews from customers turned away for tank tops, shorts, or visible midriffs. Supporters call the quality of livestock and expertise unmatched in the Upstate region; detractors point to these interactions as dealbreakers.
What's undeniable is the health of the animals — nearly every reviewer, positive or negative, acknowledges that the tanks look exceptional and the fish arrive home in strong condition.
John Koz
101 reviews
Best freshwater selection, fair prices. Friendly staff.
Nathan Sanchez
A great small shop with just about everything you can need. They offer great assistance as long as you ask questions and need some help. The owners are very kind and will help however they can as long as you are respectful and don't cause any problems. Don't listen to the bad reviews.
John Majsztrik
27 reviews
Great experience. Staff were nice and helpful. My son has done a lot of research about fish and they were so nice to answer all of his questions and were VERY knowledgeable. We were there for about an hour and bought a number of fish, shrimp, snails, and plants. All of the tanks looked healthy which is impressive because they had so many of them. The owners told us that they test each tank daily and never cross contaminate so they have one net for each tank. They definitely do it right there! I Highly recommend them for all your aquarium needs.
Cathy Wuehr
5 reviews
I am excited weekly to visit UTS!! My husband & my self look forward to checking out the new selection of fish and plants and Jackie and David are some of the best fish experts around. Thanks for all your recommendations for our aquariums and the speedy check of our aquarium water!! No other Fish store around measures up!!🤗
Jordan Clees
3 reviews
If this was the only place in town I still wouldn’t go, better off spending your time and money elsewhere, they’re completely unprofessional and lack the knowledge base needed to sell anything that comes from here leaving you without someone who knows what they’re actually doing.
Lane Vickers
Absolutely trash. Hit Petsmart first.
Blondie243
Customer service is ABSOLUTELY terrible and there rude !
Madison Gentry
3 reviews
Will never give this place my business again- owners are extremely rude and unwelcoming. Super unprofessional environment. Truly disgusting that they can’t put the animals over ego.
Nicole Burns
5 reviews
Specializes in all your tank needs but god forbid you wear a tank top you’ll get told to leave. Don’t wear anything too revealing apparently the fish will get aroused and the owners will get offended. Business revenue lost trying to set a dress code over some gold fish.
Bennett nunnally
Owners are rude, don’t dare show up at this business with an inch of skin showing! Take your business elsewhere!!! I highly recommend Zac’s Reef in Easley, great selection and extremely friendly and welcoming staff
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (864) 985-2509 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Under The Sea Aquatics.
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(864) 985-2509Address
932 US-123, Seneca, SC 29678
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932 US-123, Seneca, SC 29678
February 7, 2026
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