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Aquarium Tanks & Equipment

From nano tanks to large custom setups, we carry the equipment that actually works. Our staff uses this gear ourselves, so we can give you honest recommendations based on real experience - not just what's on sale. We stock trusted brands for filtration, heating, lighting, and all the accessories you need to keep your aquarium running smoothly.

Starting from

$10 - $2000 varies by product

Package deals available for new setups

What We Offer

Trusted brand selection

Staff-tested recommendations

New tank setup guidance

Replacement parts in stock

Package deals available

Quality Equipment Makes All the Difference

The right equipment is the foundation of a successful aquarium. Cheap gear fails at the worst times, while quality equipment runs reliably for years. At Gulf Coast Aquatics, we stock the brands that serious fishkeepers trust - because we use them ourselves.

We’re not here to push the most expensive option. We’re here to help you find equipment that actually fits your needs and budget. Sometimes that means talking you out of something you don’t need.

Well-organized aquarium equipment section with tanks and supplies

What We Carry

Aquariums - From desktop nanos to large display tanks. Glass and acrylic options available.

Filtration - Hang-on-back filters, canister filters, sumps, protein skimmers, and media.

Heating & Cooling - Reliable heaters, thermometers, and cooling solutions for Florida summers.

Lighting - LED systems for freshwater planted tanks, reef tanks, and fish-only setups.

Water Treatment - Dechlorinators, beneficial bacteria, salt mixes, and test kits.

Accessories - Nets, scrapers, tubing, air pumps, and all the little things you need.

Staff member demonstrating aquarium filter to customer

Starting a New Tank?

We love helping people set up their first aquarium. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

Tank & Stand - Make sure the stand is rated for the weight of a full tank
Filtration - Matched to your tank size and what you plan to keep
Heating - Essential for tropical fish; we’ll help you size it correctly
Lighting - Basic for fish-only, better quality for plants or corals
Substrate - Gravel, sand, or specialized substrates for planted tanks
Water Conditioner - To make tap water safe for fish
Test Kit - To monitor your cycle and water quality

Package Deals

Setting up a complete system? Ask about our package deals. When you buy everything together, we can often put together a better price than buying piece by piece. Plus, you’ll know all your equipment is compatible.

Need Replacement Parts?

Impeller broken? O-ring worn out? We stock replacement parts for the brands we sell. Keeping your equipment running is just as important as selling it in the first place.

How It Works

Tell Us Your Goals

What kind of tank do you want? Freshwater, saltwater, planted, reef?

Plan Your Setup

We'll help you choose compatible equipment that fits your budget

Get Everything You Need

Tank, stand, filter, heater, lights, substrate - we've got it all

Ongoing Support

Come back for supplies, advice, and fish when your tank is ready

Gallery

Why Choose Us

We Use This Stuff

Our recommendations come from personal experience, not sales quotas

Right-Sized Advice

We won't oversell you equipment you don't need

Parts & Service

We stock replacement parts for the brands we sell

Package Deals

Bundle and save when setting up a new tank

What Our Customers Say

"These guys actually talked me out of buying a more expensive light because it was overkill for my setup. That kind of honesty is rare."

Robert H. Venice

"Set up my first saltwater tank with their help. They recommended quality equipment that fit my budget and it's been running great for two years."

Lisa M. Sarasota

Frequently Asked Questions

What size tank should I start with?

Bigger is actually easier for beginners - more water means more stable conditions. A 20-40 gallon tank is ideal for starting out. Avoid anything under 10 gallons unless you're experienced. We'll help you choose the right size for your space and goals.

Do I need a protein skimmer for saltwater?

For most saltwater setups, yes. A good skimmer removes organic waste before it breaks down, making your tank much more stable. The only exception might be a very small nano tank with frequent water changes. We can recommend the right skimmer for your tank size.

What filter do you recommend?

It depends on your setup. For freshwater, we often recommend hang-on-back filters or canister filters depending on tank size. For saltwater, a sump-based system with a protein skimmer is usually best. We'll match the filtration to your specific needs.

Are expensive lights worth it?

If you're keeping live plants or corals, yes - quality lighting makes a huge difference in growth and color. For fish-only tanks, basic lighting is fine. We'll help you choose lights that match what you're keeping without overspending.

Can you help me set up my tank?

We provide guidance on setup and can answer questions along the way. While we don't offer installation services, we'll make sure you understand every step of the process before you leave the store.

Related Services

Freshwater Fish

Tropical community fish, cichlids, bettas, goldfish, plecos and more - all quarantined for 2 weeks before sale.

Saltwater Fish

Clownfish, tangs, wrasses, gobies, and marine invertebrates - hand-selected for health and quarantined before sale.

Free Water Testing

Complimentary water testing for aquarium owners. Bring in a sample and we'll test the key parameters and help troubleshoot any issues.

Ready to Get Started?

Visit our store in Sarasota and let our experts help you find exactly what you need.