About
Tucked away in Virginia Beach, Homebred Aquatics is a home-based aquatics operation run by Patrick David and his colleague Max — two fishkeepers whose passion is immediately obvious the moment you walk in or pick up the phone. Patrick breeds fish and grows plants on-site, and customers consistently rave about the sheer volume and quality of what they take home. One reviewer described being stunned by the generous portions of plants they received, noting they were significantly larger and healthier than comparable offerings from chain fish stores — all at prices that had them doing a double-take.
The heart of Homebred Aquatics is its service work. Patrick and his team handle everything from moving a 120-gallon cichlid tank an hour away to setting up a Red Sea G2 200 MAX, to maintaining a 220-gallon saltwater aquarium and transforming a neglected dental office reef tank into a showpiece filled with healthy corals and fish. They service both freshwater and saltwater systems, and multiple reviewers mention ongoing monthly maintenance agreements that keep their tanks looking their best.
Patrick's attention to detail extends to diagnostics too — one customer called about issues with their saltwater tank, and he quickly identified ich and recommended the right treatment products. The selection at Homebred is impressive for a small-scale breeder. Customers mention picking up shrimp, unique fish, and an array of live plants, all raised in well-maintained tanks that serve as both inventory and inspiration.
Patrick takes the time to walk customers through water chemistry, tank cycling, and livestock compatibility, turning every visit into an education. What sets Homebred Aquatics apart in the Virginia Beach area is the combination of deeply personal service and genuine expertise across both freshwater planted tanks and saltwater reef systems. Patrick moves tanks, aquascapes rock layouts, selects livestock, and keeps everything running — all at prices customers describe as beyond reasonable.
For hobbyists in Hampton Roads looking for quality livestock, expert tank maintenance, or just someone who genuinely cares about the hobby, Homebred Aquatics delivers.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Home-bred fish and plants with generous portions at remarkably low prices
- Full-service tank maintenance for both freshwater and saltwater systems
- Experienced in moving large aquariums including 75, 120, and 220 gallon tanks
- Professional aquascaping and saltwater reef tank setup including Red Sea systems
- Knowledgeable staff who educate customers on water chemistry and fish care during every interaction
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Had a Great experience with Homebread aquatics. Very responsive, helpful and patient . Wouldn’t hesitate to use their services again”
— Michael Oliva5.02 weeks ago“Max was awesome and obviously super passionate about aquarium care. He really knows his stuff, we're super excited to keep working with y'all. Thank you so much!!”
— Catie M5.02 weeks ago“Moving large aquariums is… daunting. These guys know what they are doing. They had my 75 and 35 gallon aquariums packed up and dropped off in no time! An hour away. I didn’t have them stay and re set everything up (maybe i SHOULD have). They put the fish and plants all together in a dark container with air and heat. Everything stayed alive so far. This was definitely worth the cost (VERY reasonable) to get those tanks moved. Definitely recommend”
— Laurelyn Barnett5.02 weeks ago“Patrick did an outstanding job cleaning and setting up our saltwater aquarium. While there are no fish in the tank yet, the setup itself is stunning. The rock and aquascape selection he chose makes the tank look like a beautiful piece of the ocean—clean, natural, and perfectly balanced. His customer service was exceptional, and he worked quickly and efficiently while maintaining a very high level of professionalism. Patrick is extremely knowledgeable and took the time to explain the process, which gave us great confidence in his expertise. We were so impressed with his work that we’ve already committed to having him maintain our tank on a monthly basis, and we’re excited that he’ll also be helping us select the right fish when the time comes. Highly recommend Patrick to anyone looking for top-quality aquarium setup and maintenance.”
— M E5.03 weeks ago“I couldn’t be happier with the service! Patrick is incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything about my aquarium setup in detail. He was professional, friendly, and clearly passionate about fish care. My tank has never looked better, and I learned so much during his visit. Highly recommend to anyone looking for expert, in-home aquarium service — truly a top-notch experience!”
— Andrew Miller5.03 months ago“Patrick is extremely knowledgeable on every aspect of aquariums (fish, plants, cleaning, maintenance, etc.). He is punctual and professional. He has cleaned my tank for over a year, and it has never looked better. He is creative and offers sound advice. He never leaves a mess! He can do wonders on any tank! —Cary and Liz Savage”
— Elizabeth Savage5.04 months ago“Patrick cleaned my 220 gallon saltwater tank, he does an amazing job and I am very pleased keeping my tank.”
— Thomas Clark5.04 months ago“Patrick and Max have both been great. They are very thorough when explaining what they are doing and why they suggest different things. I love my fresh water tank.”
— Valerie Lamb5.04 months ago“Patrick is extremely knowledgeable and a great personality. This is our first aquarium and he has done an excellent job setting all up.”
— Ron Spindel5.04 months ago“Patrick is great at what he does. He has moved tanks for me and also keeps up with my salt water test and maintenance of many different tanks at a great price. If you are looking for someone I would recommend giving him a call.”
— Nick Kirby5.06 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (757) 690-4905 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting HOMEBRED AQUATICS.