About
Tucked into Bon Air, Virginia, Aquarium Pros VA has become the go-to reef store for saltwater hobbyists across the Richmond metro area. Walk in and you'll find rows of clean, well-maintained tanks housing an impressive variety of saltwater fish — many of them exotic species you won't spot at big-box pet stores — alongside what multiple reviewers call the best frag selection in Virginia. Corals are the clear star here: hammers, rare specimens, and a rotating inventory that keeps regulars coming back weekly to see what's new.
The shop is primarily a saltwater operation, and the staff is upfront about that. They do stock a handful of freshwater supplies — conditioners, air check valves, and similar essentials — but the heart of the business is reef. If you're running a nano mixed reef or a 215-gallon showpiece, this is the place.
What sets Aquarium Pros apart is the depth of service. Owner Scott and team members like Garrett, Robert, and David don't just sell livestock — they guide customers through entire builds. Multiple reviewers describe Scott personally helping them design tanks, select custom cabinetry, choose compatible fish and coral pairings, and then maintaining the system on a regular schedule.
One customer recounted a full six-month journey from design through installation of a 215-gallon saltwater reef tank, praising Scott's communication and reliability at every step. Another mentions setups ranging from turtle aquariums to full reef systems. Pricing comes up repeatedly as fair and reasonable, which matters in a hobby where feeling ripped off is a common complaint.
Reviewers specifically note feeling good about their purchases rather than overcharged — a sentiment that builds the kind of loyalty this store clearly enjoys. Since the closure of Tiki, a formerly beloved local shop, Aquarium Pros has filled a critical gap for the area's reef community. The staff actively participates in the hobby and engages customers with patience, whether they're explaining water chemistry variables or answering a seven-year-old's questions about sea life.
For saltwater enthusiasts in the Richmond area, this is the shop that earns repeat visits.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Widely regarded as the best coral frag selection in Virginia
- Full-service saltwater tank design, custom cabinet builds, and ongoing maintenance
- Exceptionally clean tanks with healthy, often rare saltwater fish
- Knowledgeable staff including Scott and Garrett who guide customers through entire reef builds
- Fair and reasonable pricing praised consistently by the reef community
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Stopped by today for the first time. Great shop with lots of unique finds. Will definitely be visiting frequently.”
— Tim Kindrick5.0a week ago“Garrett and Scott were great. Super helpful and very knowledgeable. Great selection, especially corals. Overall great store.”
— jeff Gibson5.02 weeks ago“Best frag selection in Virginia. They have anything and everything you could possibly want. Staff is super helpful with any problems you are having with your tank.”
— Jordan Jarrett Behler5.03 weeks ago“Love Aquarium Pros and working with Scott and the staff is always super easy. One of the best places for a reefer that wants to feel good about their purchase and NOT like they’ve been ripped off.”
— Andrew Samuel5.04 weeks ago“We had the best experience last weekend visiting Aquarium Pros. We are getting into the hobby and they welcomed us enthusiastically and made sure all our questions were answered. Garrett in particular took care of us and is one of the reasons we will be frequent flyers. For being such a challenging hobby they sure make it seem like with the right community we can be endlessly successful. We look forward to a long partnership with this business!”
— Morgan Jessee5.04 weeks ago“Very knowledgeable and courteous for all aquarium needs no matter the level of experience the customer may be! With so many variables to saltwater, the staff takes time to explain and answer any questions one may have and guide you in a direction. I have had an aquarium for a few years and with no supplier close to my area, I found Aquarium Pros for all of my needs and in the short time with their help, my tank looks better than it has for sometime now. Thank you for your help and look forward to growing my tank with your help!”
— Taylor Orem5.0a month ago“I was in need of an air check valve and freshwater conditioner and needed both in a pinch. Was doing the first partial water change for my new Betta and was adding an extra air pump for better oxygenation. I searched all main local pet stores where it would typically be and no one nearby had it. Googled Aquarium Pros and called to see if they had it. David answered the phone and informed me that they had both in stock. Asked him if he could hold it so I could come right over to purchase and he said yes. David was very professional and kind in his helping me as a first time shopper with this company. Transaction went smoothly and he informed me that they really only sell saltwater fish and supplies but oddly enough have a few small things for fresh water. Looked around for a bit and saw a large variety of healthy and extremely exotic looking saltwater fish I had never seen before. Tanks looked clean and well kept too. I don't know that I will ever get into keeping exotics as 1 Betta is plenty maintenance to keep my hands full. Nevertheless I am very satisfied with the ambience and service and was able to finish all the adjustments for today's water change/adjustments. If ever I need to get freshwater supplies in a pinch and these guys have it, I will certainly return. My Betta and I are both happy.”
— Will O.5.02 months ago“Great coral selection and service!”
— Tyler Carter5.04 months ago“They have a wonderful selection of salt water fish.”
— Danna Gammon5.04 months ago“My favorite reef store in VA. Awesome staff, well kept place!”
— Mike Wolz5.06 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (804) 272-2180 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aquarium Pros VA.