Business Details
9 Years
experience
Tropical Fish & Aquarium Supplies in Harlow
Friendly Fish Aquatics is a family-run fishkeeping specialist established in 2017 by Barry and Julie in Harlow, Essex. Our shop was created to address common issues we observed in traditional fish stores, prioritising fish health through rigorous quarantine processes and individual tank filtration systems. With 109 display tanks and over 40 years of combined experience, we provide expert advice on community fish compatibility, aquarium setup, and nutrition.Our 5-star pet license from Epping Forest Council reflects our commitment to responsible fishkeeping practices. We source fish from local breeders whenever possible and maintain transparent operations, including visible quarantine tanks. The store operates from Bonnie's Oak Garden Centre, offering a welcoming environment for both novice and experienced aquarists.
Services
Aquariums
Live Fish
Aquarium Accessories
Fish Food
Water Testing
Aquarium Maintenance
Fish Nutrition Advice
Tank Setup
Quarantine Services
Local Fish Delivery
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- 109 aquariums with quarantined, healthy fish
- 5 Star pet Licence from Epping Forest Council
- Two-week mandatory fish quarantine process
- Local breeder partnerships for quality stock
- Individual filtration systems in every tank
Associations and certifications
- 5 Star pet Licence (Epping Forest Council)
Services
Aquarium Sales
We offer a comprehensive range of aquariums from leading brand Ciano. Our selection includes 14-239 litre tanks in various configurations, all available for in-store purchase. Tanks feature modern designs with complete setup kits for immediate use.
Tropical Fish
Over 100 display tanks house quarantined community fish species. We specialise in healthy, responsibly sourced tropical fish including guppies, tetras, and cichlids with expert advice on species compatibility.
Fish Nutrition
SERA-certified nutrition advice available for all species. We stock premium frozen foods, specialised diets, and vitamin supplements to maintain optimal fish health and colouration.
Aquarium Setup
Expert guidance on complete aquarium systems including filtration, heating, and aquascaping. Our staff provides practical advice on tank cycling and water parameter management for new setups.
Quarantine Process
All fish undergo mandatory two-week quarantine in dedicated tanks. This ensures disease-free stock and visible health checks before display, maintaining our 5-star licence standards.
People
Barry
Owner
Founder with 40 years' fishkeeping experience, established Friendly Fish Aquatics in 2017 after completing SERA fish nutrition training. Specialises in community tank setups.
Julie
Co-Owner
Co-founder who manages daily operations and customer interactions. Completed SERA fish nutrition training alongside Barry in 2024. Focuses on creating welcoming customer experiences.
Questions
What fish species do you stock?
We have over 40 species including guppies, tetras, cichlids, and bettas. Our 109 tanks focus on community fish suitable for peaceful aquarium environments.
Do you offer fishkeeping advice?
Yes, our owners provide free expert advice on tank setup, fish compatibility, and water maintenance based on decades of practical experience.
How do you ensure fish health?
All fish undergo mandatory two-week quarantine with individual filtration systems. We hold a 5-star pet licence demonstrating our health and welfare standards.
Can I buy aquarium equipment online?
We offer in-store purchases only to maintain fish welfare standards. Our shop allows customers to view fish health before purchase.
Do you source fish locally?
We prioritise local breeders for stock whenever possible to support regional aquaculture and ensure species adaptation to UK conditions.
Reviews (4)
John Ward
Jan 29, 2022
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The staff are very customer friendly and cater for all my needs. Very knowledgeable and are able to answer all my queries. Its an impressively run business and I have no hesitation in recommending, anyone who desires to keep fish, to use it.
Leanne Barber
Jan 27, 2022
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Great fish shop, owner is very friendly and helpful and gave me the best advice I have received so far regarding keeping fish. Good variety of fish and plants, as well as some ornaments and also good selection of fish tanks and stands. Reasonable prices and would definitely recommend! :)
Jason Clayton
Jan 23, 2022
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A fantastic shop for the tropical fish keeper! Not only do they have a superb range of livestock and live plants, but specialist food for Betta keepers like myself. It's also a great place to get advice and guidance. Thank you Friendly Fish Aquatics
Matt Mountain The Cockney Painter
Jan 21, 2022
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Nice friendly store with good stock of fish. have purchased 2 batches of fish so far and all have been healthy and settled well. Will be going back for more
