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Healthy Freshwater Tropical Fish

Our freshwater section features a carefully curated selection of healthy tropical fish, from beginner-friendly community species to rare and exotic specimens. Every fish spends two weeks in our quarantine system before hitting the sales floor, so you can buy with confidence. Whether you're setting up your first 10-gallon tank or adding to an established collection, our staff can help you choose species that will thrive together in your specific setup.

Starting from

$3 - $50 per fish

Prices vary by species

What We Offer

All fish quarantined 2 weeks

Wide variety from common to rare

Compatibility advice included

Healthy, active specimens

Free water testing

Why Freshwater Fish Make Great Pets

Freshwater aquariums are a wonderful way to bring a piece of nature into your home. They’re relaxing to watch, relatively easy to maintain, and offer endless variety - from the simple beauty of a school of neon tetras to the personality-packed antics of cichlids.

At Gulf Coast Aquatics, we specialize in healthy, quarantined freshwater fish. Every fish you see on our sales floor has spent at least two weeks in our quarantine system, where we monitor for signs of disease and ensure they’re eating well before they go home with you.

Colorful community aquarium with various tropical fish species swimming among live plants

Our Freshwater Selection

We stock a wide variety of freshwater fish to suit every tank and skill level:

Community Fish - Peaceful species that get along with others, perfect for mixed tanks. Tetras, rasboras, guppies, platies, mollies, and more.

Cichlids - From colorful African Malawi cichlids to personality-filled South American species. We can help you choose the right mix.

Bettas - Beautiful male bettas in various colors and fin types. We carry both common varieties and specialty bettas.

Catfish & Bottom Dwellers - Corydoras, plecos, loaches, and other cleanup crew fish to keep your tank healthy.

Goldfish & Koi - Traditional coldwater favorites. We’ll be honest about space requirements (goldfish need more than most people think!).

Rare & Unusual - We often have unusual species for experienced fishkeepers looking for something special.

Expert staff member assisting customer with fish selection in freshwater section

The Gulf Coast Aquatics Difference

What sets us apart from big box stores? We actually care about your success:

Quarantine Everything - Our 2-week quarantine period catches health issues before they reach your tank
Honest Advice - We’ll tell you if a fish won’t work in your setup, even if it means losing the sale
Real Experience - Our staff are actual fishkeepers who practice what they preach
Ongoing Support - Free water testing and troubleshooting for all customers

Getting Started

New to fishkeeping? Here’s what we recommend:

Start with a properly cycled tank (we can explain the nitrogen cycle), choose hardy beginner species, and don’t overstock. Come talk to us before you buy - we’ll help you avoid the common mistakes that cause people to give up on the hobby.

Already an experienced fishkeeper? Let us know what you’re looking for. We can often special order species if we don’t have them in stock.

How It Works

Browse Our Selection

Walk through our freshwater section and see what catches your eye

Ask for Advice

Tell us about your tank and we'll recommend compatible species

We Net & Bag

We carefully net your fish and bag them properly for transport

Acclimate at Home

Follow our acclimation guide for best results

Gallery

Why Choose Us

2-Week Quarantine

Every fish is observed for disease before sale

Expert Advice

Staff who keep fish at home and know their stuff

Honest Recommendations

We won't sell you incompatible species

Free Water Testing

Bring in a sample anytime - it's always free

What Our Customers Say

"Finally a fish store where the staff knows what they're talking about. Marcus talked me out of buying fish that would've died in my tank. That's integrity."

Dave M. Sarasota

"My kids' first aquarium has been running 2 years now thanks to the setup advice here. No losses!"

Jennifer K. Lakewood Ranch

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I wait before adding fish to a new tank?

Your tank needs to cycle first, which typically takes 4-6 weeks. We can test your water to confirm when it's ready. Never add fish to an uncycled tank - they will likely die from ammonia or nitrite poisoning.

How many fish can I keep in my tank?

It depends on the species, your filtration, and maintenance habits. As a general rule for small tropical fish, aim for 1 inch of fish per gallon of water. Come in with your tank details and we'll give you specific advice.

Do you guarantee your fish?

We stand behind the health of our fish at the time of sale - that's why we quarantine everything for 2 weeks. If you have issues, bring in a water sample so we can troubleshoot together.

Can you order specific fish for me?

Yes! If we don't have what you're looking for, we can often special order it from our suppliers. Just let us know what you're after.

What's the best fish for beginners?

We recommend hardy species like platies, corydoras catfish, or white cloud mountain minnows. Avoid goldfish for indoor tanks (they need more space than most people realize) and skip the 'sensitive' species until you have some experience.

Related Services

Aquariums & Equipment

Quality tanks, filters, heaters, lights, and accessories. Brands that serious fishkeepers trust, with honest recommendations.

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.