About
Walking into Aquarium Design Group in Houston feels less like entering a fish store and more like stepping into a living art gallery. The showroom features elaborate aquascaped displays that rise above the waterline, blending hardscape, live plants, and carefully chosen livestock into compositions that have drawn international attention — including features on the MD Fish Tanks YouTube channel and visits from aquarium enthusiasts as far away as El Salvador and Denmark. ADG's core identity revolves around planted tanks and aquascaping.
Their selection of hardscape materials — driftwood, stone, substrate — is extensive and high-quality, and they stock live plants that reviewers say are harder to source at other Houston shops. Staff members like Jeff, Mike, Don, and Josh bring deep expertise in planted tank design, walking customers through substrate choices, CO2 systems, RO water setups, and planting techniques right beside the display tanks. Don, in particular, draws repeat visitors who value his decades of hands-on experience.
Despite their freshwater reputation, the saltwater side surprises people. Multiple reviewers note a large coral and saltwater fish selection that belies the store's planted-tank aesthetic. Freshwater shrimp are another draw, with nano tank enthusiasts specifically seeking out ADG for their colonies and species variety.
The full-service side of the business is where ADG distinguishes itself from typical local fish stores. They design, deliver, and install custom aquariums for homes and offices, handling everything from drilling stands to aquascaping multiple tanks in a single visit. One customer described a seamless 120-gallon replacement that involved saving all existing livestock, re-drilling furniture, and aquascaping two tanks on-site without losing a single animal.
The store also carries houseplants, adding another dimension to an already browsable space. The atmosphere is decidedly low-pressure — customers describe spending time wandering the displays for inspiration before flagging down staff when they're ready. Phone and social media responsiveness is a recurring complaint, so plan to visit in person.
For Houston aquarists who value design-forward fishkeeping, ADG sets the standard.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Museum-quality aquascaped display tanks that serve as living art installations
- Extensive hardscape materials and rare live plants difficult to find elsewhere in Houston
- Full custom aquarium design, delivery, and professional installation service
- Strong freshwater shrimp selection popular with nano tank enthusiasts
- Surprisingly large saltwater coral and fish inventory alongside their planted tank focus
From keepers
Customer reviews
“If you haven't been you need to,most amazing tanks and great variety of fish”
— Will Sheppartd5.021 hours ago“Excellent selection of top notch aquariums and just about everything you need to create your own. I highly recommend anyone coming by to check out a different perspective on the every day aquarium you think you know. The game has changed and these guys are leading the way.”
— M RS5.02 weeks ago“The only thing I dislike about this place is the lack of communication outside of the store. If you live far like I do and want to check ahead if they have what you are looking for, they will straight up ignore your calls or messages on social media.”
— Marisa Markley4.0a month ago“I used to enjoy this place till the last time I was there the owner said I have 5 min to make a purchase since since he was in the middle of buying supplies and didn't want his cart to expire... If your priority is with purchasing supplies instead dealing with customers that are present then I will make your life easier and give you all the time you need by no longer shopping there.”
— Jeff Lowery1.0a month ago“My absolute most favorite fish store in houston”
— Jose Alvarez5.0a month ago“I live in El Salvador, and I visited ADG, which was something I'd wanted to do for a long time. It's an amazing place. Keep up the good work!”
— Juan Bustillo5.02 months ago“Extremely nice staff and great looking tanks, highly recommend”
— Huy5.02 months ago“Really nice store and very helpful. Josh helped me and answered all of my questions. Their saltwater selection is huge despite seeming more like a freshwater store.”
— John Chargois5.02 months ago“Best place !”
— Indu Kumar5.02 months ago“They are the best aquarium shop in Houston, period.”
— Roshan Verma5.02 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (713) 622-6467 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aquarium Design Group.