Tucked into Highland Village in the northern reaches of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Rift 2 Reef Aquatics has built a devoted following among hobbyists who appreciate a store that goes beyond the basics. The name says it all — from African rift lake cichlids to full reef setups — though the freshwater side is where this shop truly shines, with a depth of stocking that rivals stores twice its size. Owner Dane and staff members like manager Kali and Ethan are frequently mentioned by name in reviews, and that personal touch matters.
One customer recounted how TJ and Ethan came to their home to install a 60-gallon aquarium with substrate and RO water, then guided them through the patient process of adding plants and fish over time. That kind of hands-on tank setup service turns first-time buyers into long-term hobbyists. The live plant selection draws particular praise, with rotating inventory and elaborate aquascaped display tanks throughout the store that serve as genuine inspiration.
The shop breeds critically endangered wild-type bettas on-site — a detail that speaks to the level of passion driving the operation. Reviewers also highlight rare tropical species they couldn't find anywhere else in the DFW area, alongside staples like koi bettas, nerite snails, and copepods. Five-dollar brine shrimp cups offer a fun live food option for customers to take home.
Practical details matter here too: an RO water filling station for both freshwater and saltwater, special ordering for hard-to-find items, custom lids, frozen foods, and a visible quarantine protocol where new arrivals are medicated and held under darkened lights before reaching the sales floor. That extra step gives buyers genuine peace of mind about fish health. Customer service reviews are mostly glowing, though a handful of visitors have reported feeling ignored during busy stretches — something worth noting for a small-staffed independent shop.
The overwhelming consensus, however, is that Rift 2 Reef is worth the drive, even from Denton or Dallas, for the selection, expertise, and a store atmosphere that makes you want to linger among the tanks.
Carolyn Weber
10 reviews
Love this store! They are super helpful, always answering questions. Their stock is super happy and healthy and I never have any issues. Got a baby girl koi betta this time and a racer nerite snail.
Jenny H
73 reviews
They have cool stuff but it’s a shame that customer service is nonexistent here. I just walked around the store for over 10 minutes ready to buy some plants and wasn’t talked to the entire time. The one employee was with a family and acted like I wasn’t even there, she looked right at me multiple times but didn’t say anything or even smile. Not a “hello”, “one moment please” or “thanks for your patience.” It was awkward and made me uncomfortable so I finally left. It’s not hard to be friendly to your customers. Also, take 10 seconds and scoop dead fish out of your tanks. Other fish eating them is tacky for a fish store like this.
Madeline Riley
4 reviews
I absolutely love this place! Every time I visit, there’s something new to see—whether it’s a new display that inspires my next project, new plants, or a different type of fish to add to my collection. I’m never disappointed when I leave because the staff is always super friendly and very knowledgeable. Highly recommend checking it out!
Leda
90 reviews
I adore this place. We go in several times a week! Fantastic selection, amazing staff, beautiful tanks.
probably. me
4 reviews
This was my first time coming in, no one greeted us. The store itself looks very nice, they had a good selection in plants, freshwater fishes and an okay amount for saltwater. There really wasn’t many employees, a lady with black hair in a bun was helping someone else while me and my partner weren’t asked if we needed any help. I was interested in buying one of their betta set ups and decided to give Rift 2 Reef a try because I heard a lot of good things about this place, but when I asked the lady with red hair and pigtails if their set ups were for sale, because another thing was that half of their set ups was not priced. She bluntly responded with ‘if it’s not priced it’s not for sale’ and began to say that the only set up that was for sale and then just walks off in the middle of us talking about these set ups. I thought that was extremely rude, very unprofessional. Me and my partner just walked out after that and will not return to this place. Despite the fact that this place is very close to where I live. I read other reviews and I do agree with what I read, staff are rude and very dismissive. The lady that was ‘helping’ me is very rude, I picked up on that the moment we walked in. I did not feel welcomed. This is the exact reason why I will continue to make the long drive to Dallas North Aquarium.
K Boustead
6 reviews
This is the best aquatic store I've ever been to. The staff is so nice and kind, they are always helpful. Every fish and plant I've gotten from here had lived and thrived. I'm very happy with the quality and selection they have.
Shanghaied
27 reviews
Friendly staff and a good selection. Fish I've bought here seem healthy. I like to bring my daughter here a few times a month Recommended!
raenor burrow
22 reviews
Brilliant and extremely knowledgeable and experienced staff and ownership. Amazing Fish and plants
April
2 reviews
Wonderful and kind staff absolutely beautiful tanks and fish, definitely recommend
Dane Angus
11 reviews
Great place! Good selection freshwater and marine fish. Staff is super friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (972) 317-2341 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Rift 2 Reef Aquatics.
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2250 Justin Rd #116, Highland Village, TX 75077
February 7, 2026
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