PetSmart Fish & Aquarium Guide

PetSmart fish and aquarium supplies cover everything you need to set up and maintain a healthy aquatic environment.

If you’re starting your first tank or upgrading an established setup, PetSmart offers tanks, filters, decorations, food, and live fish across multiple locations and online.

Key Highlights

• PetSmart stocks beginner kits, advanced filtration systems, and thousands of live fish species in-store and online.
• Prices range from budget-friendly starter tanks under $50 to premium aquariums exceeding $500.
• Expert staff and in-store services like water testing help you build a successful aquarium without guesswork.

What PetSmart Fish and Aquarium Products Actually Include

PetSmart’s fish and aquarium section is organized into distinct categories that serve different experience levels.

I find their layout makes it straightforward to navigate whether you need a single replacement heater or a complete ecosystem setup.

PetSmart also stocks specialty items like water conditioners, bacterial supplements, test kits, and medications for common fish health issues.

Aquarium Tanks and Sizes

PetSmart carries tanks ranging from 5-gallon starter models to 75-gallon and larger systems.

➤ Their tank selection includes glass and acrylic options, with various shapes like standard rectangles, bow-front designs, and corner tanks.

I recommend checking both in-store availability and the online inventory because tank selection varies by location. Larger tanks (over 55 gallons) often require special ordering, and availability depends on your local store’s stock and space.

Heating and Lighting Equipment

Most tropical fish require stable water temperatures between 76 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

Lighting at PetSmart ranges from basic fluorescent fixtures to LED systems.

LED lights use less electricity, run cooler, and come in adjustable color spectrums that enhance plant growth and fish coloration. Many LED fixtures include built-in timers for natural day-night cycles.

Substrates and Tank Decorations

PetSmart carries gravel in various colors and sizes, sand for bottom feeders and planted tanks, and specialized substrates like aquasoil for aquatic plants.

➤ They also stock driftwood, rocks, caves, and artificial plants and decorations in every aesthetic style.

Live aquatic plants are available in-store at most locations, though selection varies. Real plants improve water quality and provide natural hiding spaces for fish, making them a valuable addition to any setup.

PetSmart Fish Selection and Live Stock

PetSmart sells hundreds of fish species across freshwater, saltwater, and brackish environments. Availability changes frequently based on distributor shipments and local demand, so calling ahead helps if you’re looking for a specific species.

Freshwater Fish at PetSmart

Freshwater fish make up the bulk of PetSmart’s inventory because they’re easier to maintain and more affordable. You’ll find bettas, goldfish, tetras, danios, corydoras catfish, plecos, dwarf gouramis, and countless others.

I see most PetSmart locations stock community-friendly species suitable for beginners. Less common fish may require special orders, which typically take 1 to 2 weeks.

Saltwater and Marine Fish

Not all PetSmart locations carry saltwater fish, but larger stores in coastal areas and major cities often do.

When available, they stock clownfish, damselfish, tangs, wrasses, and other marine species alongside the specialized equipment saltwater aquariums demand.

Water Care Products and Testing

Maintaining proper water chemistry keeps fish healthy. PetSmart stocks comprehensive water treatment solutions.

Water Conditioners and Chemicals

Chlorine and chloramine in tap water harm fish, so a quality water conditioner is essential.

Testing Kits

PetSmart sells both liquid test kits and digital meters for measuring ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and temperature. Liquid kits cost less and last longer, though digital meters give faster results.

Many PetSmart stores offer free water testing at the customer service desk, which is convenient for quick checks.

Plant and Fish Nutrients

Fertilizers and trace element supplements available at PetSmart support plant growth in planted tanks.

Specialty foods and supplements address specific fish needs, like color-enhancing pellets or immune-boosting formulas.

PetSmart Fish and Aquarium Services

Beyond products, PetSmart offers services that help new and experienced aquarists succeed.

Water Testing

Most PetSmart locations test aquarium water for free.

Tank Setup Assistance

In-store associates help design tank layouts and select compatible equipment.

While they won’t set up your tank for you, they answer questions about filtration capacity, temperature requirements, and tank cycling. The quality of advice varies by store and staff expertise.

Grooming and Health Services

PetSmart’s grooming services focus primarily on dogs and cats, not fish. However, staff can identify obvious fish health issues and recommend treatments available in-store.

Pricing and Value at PetSmart

PetSmart pricing is mid-market compared to specialty aquarium shops and online retailers. You pay a slight premium for convenience and in-store support, but prices are competitive with other big-box pet stores.

Sales and Discounts

PetSmart runs frequent promotions on tanks, equipment, and food.

Sign up for their loyalty program to receive email notifications about weekly sales. Seasonal clearance events, especially after holidays, offer significant discounts on aquarium products.

Setting Up Your First Tank with PetSmart Products

Here’s a practical approach to building a reliable setup using what PetSmart carries.

Step 1: Choose Your Tank Size

Start with at least a 20-gallon tank. Visit the store and inspect tanks for cracks or chips. A kit saves money and ensures compatibility, but purchasing components separately offers more customization.

Step 2: Select Filtration

For a 20-gallon, choose a hang-on-back filter rated for 60 to 100 GPH, or a small canister filter. Ask an associate about maintenance requirements and replacement filter cartridge availability.

Step 3: Add Heating and Lighting

Buy a 100 to 150-watt submersible heater and a thermometer. LED lighting improves viewing and plant growth. Some tanks include lighting; others require separate purchase.

Step 4: Prepare Substrate and Decorations

Rinse aquarium gravel before adding it to prevent cloudiness. Arrange driftwood, rocks, and plants to create hiding spaces. This takes time but directly impacts fish comfort and water quality.

Step 5: Fill and Cycle

Add dechlorinated water and run the filter for several days before adding fish. Use PetSmart’s free water testing to track ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. Once ammonia and nitrite reach zero, the tank is ready.

Step 6: Stock Gradually

Start with a few hardy species and add more after 2 to 3 weeks. Overstocking stresses fish and crashes water chemistry. A general rule is 1 inch of fish length per gallon, adjusted for species and filter capacity.

Experienced Aquarists

PetSmart’s inventory supports advanced setups, though specialty retailers may offer more options.

Planted Tank Supplies

Specialty aquasoils, CO2 injection systems, and plant fertilizers are available but limited compared to dedicated planted tank shops. PetSmart’s LED lighting works well for low-tech planted tanks without CO2.

Saltwater and Reef Supplies

Larger PetSmart locations carry protein skimmers, powerheads, and reef-specific lighting. Live rock and salt mixes are usually available. Specialty marine retailers offer better selection and expertise for complex reef systems.

Breeding Supplies

Breeding boxes, spawning mops, and conditioning foods help serious breeders, though selection is limited. Fry food and specialized equipment may require online ordering or specialty shops.