Visiting the area walked in and was blown away at the setup and the availability of plants and fish. Too bad they aren't closer to where I live. Would be there regularly would definitely visit again when in the area! read more

I am possibly looking to get back into the aquarium hobby after 30+ years since I last was into it. So I looked up shops in Yelp and The Reef jumped out, especially since I was going to be stopping by Sullivan's Hardware today to pick up something. The place was really busy, but I was able to speak to a very nice young lady named Evelyn (I believe... I'm extremely bad with names, but think that was it. If not Apologies). She really took the time to help me catch up on some of the changes in the hobby and focus in on somethings I think I may like. I have more research to do but will definitely be back when it comes to make some critical decisions and buy some of the key components such as aquarium itself, substrate, filtration, etc. Really appreciate the time she took with me. I'm not an expert to be able to "grade" The Reef like some may be able to, but I can speak to how they treated me today. The Reef seemed to have a depth of products to help someone just starting out at a small scale, to the very experienced hobbyist looking to go to the next level or the advanced aquarium keeper who needs to pick up some specific item. (I took the pics to help me remember some of the items I was looking into but figured they would be good for this review as well) read more

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Okay equipment store, I'd stay away from the saltwater section, butterflyfish was parasite ridden and died 5 days into quarantine.

This place has a ton of great stuff but it's the only place I've bought fish from that died right away and they DO NOT honor their warranty. They will make every excuse and blame you. Last time I saved their own water from the bag the fish was in and made them test it first. Nitrates through the roof. My water had perfectly fine levels and still wouldn't give me another fish or refund. Haven't been back to buy a fish from them since. Only random stuff for my tank. Shady business practices and false promises. Edit After owners poor google reply: There was no compatibility issues nor was I ever told by any sales associate about a compatibility issue. This is a blatant lie. This fish was going into a tank all by himself. I have multiple tanks. I have bought so many fish over the years and have only had problems with fish from here coming from the poor water quality which was confirmed by your employee. Once again you are making false claims. THIS PLACE WILL NOT HONOR THEIR FISH WARRANTY. After this poor response by the owner I have updated my review to 1 star! read more

The staff were very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Everything living there is healthy and thriving. There were so many unique products. Parking is very tight so be sure to not go during rush hour. read more

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This place is a valuable place to know about, if you have fish or aquatic animals or even an interest in the terrarium. The staff is always friendly and super helpful. If you have questions and they don't individually know the answer they will find someone who knows the answer. read more

Incredible selection and knowledgeable staff. The reef always has everything I need for my fish tank.

This may be the holy grail of aquarium shops in Central Indiana. Let's just say, it's my favorite and it's my partners arch nemesis. Their employees are always really friendly when I stop in and love to talk about the hobby. Who doesn't love to talk with fellow humans who share the same obsession as you? Their freshwater plant selection is very nice. And if you're like me, and like to grow a jungle out of your tanks, they also have a fantastic selection of hydroponic safe plants. I prefer to come here for my freshwater fish. Their prices are very comparable to local chains, but the quality and selection is far superb. I've found some of the harder to find nano types here and have had a 100% survival rate so far. (Knocks on wood) They have a really nice selection of some the most desirable Betta types. I like that they keep their Bettas in larger containers than you see in most places and with a stem of the highest oxygen creating plants, like Wisteria. I bought my stunning male Betta here, and he is the most charismatic little water puppy. My pretty boy did still need a few weeks in his palace of a 10 gallon tank to build his strength and energy back up, after living in such a small space for awhile. But he's now a happy, snail murdering fiend that loves to take food right from your hand/tongs. I could go on for an eternity. I now wander the shop for some time before getting what I've came for, because there is just so much to see! Everything you need in the hobby is here. Whether you're into freshwater, saltwater, or even outdoor ponds, they've got you covered. Their fresh and frozen food selection is magnificent. I can't say enough good things about this shop. read more

The Reef Aquarium Shop - I love me some Convicts. Heehee - Aquarium Services Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

The staff at The Reef are outstanding, extremely knowledgeable and helpful. They were even happy to help with questions/suggestions over the phone and responded to inquiries on social media. The store has a massive selection of freshwater and saltwater fish and the accessories, food, treatments etc that you will need. All of the tanks are very clean and the animals seem very healthy. Ownership cares about customer service and provided support within 24 hours. Looking forward to doing continued business with a long-standing local company. read more

The amazing store associate Toby was so helpful answering a million questions about the care of my axoltl I will never go anywhere else for aquatic help and aquatic supplies for my fish and and axoltl. Their prices vary but I would drive an hour just to go there especially for the level of care their associates have. read more

Is there a better shop for the aquarium connoisseur in Indy? Nope, there isn't. The Reef may look a little suspect from the outside, but once inside you're immersed in a sublime world for aquarium lovers with all the fish, equipment, corals, tropica, systems, and services you could possibly want. All of these are provided by employees who are friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and who do whatever they can to not steer you the wrong way. From deskside aquariums to first-time efforts for the fish-loving kiddo to elaborate, built-in systems, The Reef can and does handle it all. Seriously, I love this place. The Reef is located just north of 56th and Keystone in what looks like an old house. There's parking out front. I suppose I could nitpick and say there are some accessibility issues here, however, this is an indie joint and even as a wheelchair user myself I've never had difficulty finding a place I could park and getting up their not quite perfect but perfectly workable curbside ramp. The store itself is fairly wheelchair friendly, though aisles are a little tight and I'm definitely careful whenever I'm in here to make sure I don't accidentally break anything. With a business that is so incredibly good at what it does, I appreciate that The Reef gets just as enthusiastic with beginners and with simple household aquariums. A bad experience can turn a kid off of something like aquariums, and it's a delight watching The Reef employees match the enthusiasm of their customers. Established in 1965 (Hey, so was I!), The Reef can be hired to do aquarium set-ups and installations. I like that their labor rates are directly on their website. From fish to live plants, you can usually get a good idea of their in-stock items directly from their website. While there's obviously some variation, this can help save unnecessary trips. The Reef offers both freshwater and saltwater fish. They have a blog on their website that is definitely worth following. If you have a fish-loving kid, even visiting The Reef is a joy. I'll confess I've visited more than once simply to enjoy the fish. They've got some amazing options. The Reef is one of Indy's truly indie gems. For the aquarium lover, there simply isn't a better place to go when searching for fish, fish-related items, aquariums, advice, or actual service. They take care of the fish that they have in-stock and it's clear that they love what they do. read more

My grandma hitched a ride from Southern Indiana with a family member who was coming up this weekend for a birthday party and stayed with me. I have been wanting to get a couple more shrimp for one of my tanks, so I decided to go today and bring her with me because I thought she might like to see the aquatic life there since she was so fascinated by my tank... which is just a 40 gallon with 2 pudgy orandas... She became OBSESSED with anemones!!!! It was actually really cool to see her discover anemones for the first time in real life and become so fascinated with them when they're something I've seen a million times and don't really think much of when I see them at the reef or zoo or something... it made me tear up there because I didn't even think this was something a 76 year old woman would have never experienced in her life. So this kid (sorry... you're younger than me) who works there spent a little of his time just educating her about them and answering all of her questions (even the silly ones) knowing she wasn't buying anything. He was SO NICE and SO RESPECTFUL!!! It was beautiful These are the moments people regain faith in humanity. I have always LOVED the staff but today I held back tears because of how wonderful this guy was to my grandma who was so amazed by something she saw for the first time in her 76 years of life. I wish I had looked at his name tag, but I was emotional, so I didn't even think to. As I sit here STILL tearing up about this, I just want to acknowledge this employee, and all employees AND THE STORE IN GENERAL for being AMAZING! Thank you all so much. I am not George RR Martin, so I will conclude my novel now. THANK YOU for making my grandma so happy today. read more

The Reef Aquarium Shop - Aquarium Services Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

First time in the store on a busy Saturday and wow the staff was amazing! Sam helped me with LOTS of newbie questions and didn't rush me and showed me everything I was interested in and gave me lots of advice! Other staff were super friendly as well. I think this is a great place and coming back soon! read more

Kevin is great he found a used tank for office that was in excellent shape and saved us half off a new one.

Update: As of today, December 24, 2024, my long time pet frog has passed away due to the illness that the reef exposed it to. To this day the owner/management has never apologized for the grief they have caused me. I'm devastated. As of today, December 9, 2024 I finally received a full refund after a full month of fighting this disgusting business and the people that run it. No communication was ever sent letting me know of the situation, no expressing their sincerest apologies, or if there was anything they could do to make it right. I just happened to check my credit card online statement and noticed the credit. I reached out to the owner Kevin Hoovler expressing my heartfelt concerns via e-mail addresses that I found online, that I had to research myself because management would not provide proper contact information. I wasn't sure if my emails had reached him since I never heard anything back from him so I decided to look for him on Facebook and I sent him a message. After I sent him a message, he blocked me. Obviously the owner is just as heartless and spineless as his management. I still may lose my pet because of the sickness they exposed it to. I hope this saves one person from having to go through what I went through. As of today, December 8th 2024. This has been going on for a month now with 30 emails back and forth between Brandon Manawat and he continues to ignore my concerns and will not refund my purchase. Brandon refuses to give me the owners email contact information so I may inform him of what is going on. He has shown no concern for the health of my animal that got exposed to the sickness because of his and the stores negligence, and is now showing symptoms and may not survive and I bought this pet at this store probably three years ago. This man has no business working with animals or humans. The managerial staff at the Reef are unethical liars. They knowingly sold me sick animals and had me going back to the store time and time again after each one died and now refuse to return my money stating it has passed their seven day return policy. I have been in contact with the manager, Brandon Manawat, who is one of the biggest liars and also impersonates the owner of the store Kevin Hoovler on yelp. That's right, when you get a response on yelp showing it's from the owner of the reef, It's actually Brandon. I know this because after going through this major ordeal I made a complaint with Brandon and also posted a complaint on yelp. I first read my email response from Brandon and then later went and looked at the reply post on yelp stating that it came from the owner of the reef and it was word for word the exact same response. I had to file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. These people do not care about their customers. I came in to the Reef about a month ago and bought five African dwarf frogs . Unaware at the time when I had purchased these frogs that they were diseased and sick amphibians. As soon as I brought them home, they started to die. I came back in to the store to have my water tested(everything was in the clear) and brought in the dead frogs I has thus far and they gave me store credit for two of them and one was replaced. The very next day the one that was replaced died and they added store credit for that one to my amount. The last two hung on a couple weeks longer, but eventually died. After speaking with Brandon and Toby, I learned the frogs were sick and were quarantined and that eventually all but two frogs died at the store. I came in as soon as I could to return my last two dead frogs and asked to speak to the manager on duty, which was Ian and I had the most horrible experience dealing with this unpleasant human. Before I could speak with Ian I spoke with Toby, who was extremely knowledgeable and pleasant and reassured me It was nothing I had done wrong and that the frogs were indeed sick, and that the manager on duty would take care of me. Upon meeting Ian, he flat out, refused to help me or understand my circumstance, and just kept telling me and showing the pamphlet that states their return policy and that I had passed the return period. Then continue to insult my intelligence by saying there was no record of me having purchased sick animals from the store in the system. He made me feel extremely uncomfortable and devalued. I spent over $60 on 5 diseased frogs that are all dead and all I have is a measly in-store credit for three of them. Because of my experience with Ian, I will never shop at this store again. I am 53 years old and I have lived in this area all my life and I have been shopping at this store for most of my life. It's a shame that they treat their customers this way when they were the ones at fault. I just want my money back for receiving sick amphibians who all died and be treated with dignity and respect. read more

I'm regretfully writing this review now, as I used to frequent, The Reef. At one time they had beautiful livestock and coral, but recently it looks like an algae wasteland and the livestock have been sadly sickly. I hope this can be straightened out. The best thing to do is to start over with clean aquarium and place the affected coral in a separate container/tank. Hope this place gets back its awesome reef reputation! Anton read more

I was hesitant to make the drive all the way to the North Side, but I'm glad I did! I was hunting for some plants and a *very* special Betta fish. All of the plants I bought were in fantastic condition, and their selection of Betta fish was extensive! They had many different species, all in fantastic health. These are *not* your average fish that you just put in a bowl! Hats off to The Reef for having the best quality fish and plants in the area! read more

The Reef Aquarium Shop - My halfmoon marble dragon scale betta, purchased at The Reef - Aquarium Services Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I've gone several time and truly enjoy the lay out of the shop. The quality is wonderful and associates are willing to help quickly. read more

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I'm pretty sure my boyfriend and I here every weekend lol! I was in saltwater reef hobby 20 years ago, my boyfriend is a newbie. Sam has been extremely helpful and knowledgeable which is great because over time I've forgotten some of what I learned. We recently purchased a blue carpet anemone and added a sump to our tank. Unfortunately adding the sump started a mini cycle and the anemone was not happy! We took him back to the store not looking for a refund, just wanted the anemone to be in a healthy, stable environment. Sam took it upon himself to call the store owner to see if anything could be done and we were given credit plus money off towards our next anemone. Great store, fish, and supplies! I'm pretty sure you'll see us this weekend read more

We stopped in for some koi fish and accessories for an outdoor pond we put in. The variety they have in terms of fish and plants is amazing! Staff was friendly enough and our doggo was allowed in - which was great since we were running errands. We left with 2 new fish, rock, and ideas for home!! One weird thing that happened - we were brought to the outdoor pond area (love!) for 3 minutes tops and had left our basket & rock to the side of an isle while we did (too small of a space to lug that outside and it was only in front of one small, floor tank). When we got to the register, the phone rang and we'd said no worries in taking the call. It was the manager (I think) notifying the employee of an obstruction that needed to be moved immediately (aka: our basket that was already gone). Just sort of an odd thing to be a part of. Understand that we probably should have placed it aside elsewhere but also so surprised by the quickness of the phone call / big to-do for a basket that wasn't even there anymore read more

The Reef Aquarium Shop - Aquarium Services Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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This is my go to spot for anything aquarium. I have come here many times over the last few years seeking knowledge, fish, and aquarium plants. The Reef is right off Keystone in a former house that has been converted into a store. When you first walk in to the store there is their retail section, with everything you can think of from tanks to plants, and treatments. On the left is their saltwater aquarium room, and to the right is their freshwater aquarium rooms. The ambience is extremely casual and functional. The store mascot or resident Esmerelda has her cage in the corner adjacent to the cash register and can be heard occasional saying hello or just talking. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. I have asked a multitude of questions and each one is met with a helpful answer or finding the right person to answer. I also really enjoy their live unboxing or unpacking of their shipments of fish on facebook. They are typically pretty busy and running around the store helping customers. Every time I have interacted with them they have been helpful, polite, honest, and real. This is a great local small business that is great resource! read more

Hi I'm Rose from South Bend and I'd walk if I had to to get to the Reef. They have such a wide variety of everything worth having for your aquariums delight. Just got 4 Pink Convict Cichlids and they are so beautiful, healthy, rambunctious, and just knew how to set up their new home. We've purchased so much there and it's all so worth it. The staff is awesome, knowledgable and so ready to serve. The prices are not bad either. They lack nothing....just you go try it out for yourself!! read more

Wide variety of fish, plants, accessories and supplies. Fresh and salt water. Staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Cool place to visit. read more

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One of the few actual "aquarium shops" left. With it's wood planks floors and winding aisles full of any product you could need, this store has it all. As an animal fanatic and life lover, the first thing I look at when I go into a pet store, is the state and care of the living creatures. Every tank has amazing filtration, room, proper lighting, heating, and is planted!! Each one looks like a tank that was personally created. The livestock is bright, flashy, and curious. As a customer service worker, I also look at how each store's employees act. They are all very personable and knowledgeable here. I witnessed one going live in social media showing off The Reef and it was pretty cool. As for stock: you have freshwater, saltwater, exotic fish, invertebrates, and axolotles. You need feeders and special food? They've got it. Aquascaping? Plant care, plants, rocks, substrate, tools, etc are all available. It's just kind of a magical store and I could sit in here all day and just watch the fish and bustling people going home happy with their products. I recently bought plants and large rocks for aquascaping, I'll update with pictures once I plant everything:) Thanks so much The Reef, totally worth a visit. read more

Please never go to a Petco, Pet Smart, Pet Supplies Plus or whatever else for your fish needs ever again! This place has everything you'll ever need for your fish and more. They have a saltwater and a freshwater section. Not only do they have a wide variety of fish and other aquatic animals, but they have all kinds of tanks, decor, plants, gravel, sand and more! The staff here is very knowledgeable and friendly. They always offer a helping hand on whatever you need. Sometimes I like to come to just walk around and admire the fish. Everything here is fairly priced and they actually take care of the fish on display unlike a lot of places. Love this place!!! read more

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My grandma is a retired fish keeper (got too difficult for her as she aged) and she would take me to the reef as a little girl often and now that I'm an adult I've taken up the fish keeping hobby and the reef is the #1 place I go. The employees actually know what they're talking about so don't expect to have to figure out what you need on your own so if you're a beginner they've got your back! If you're thinking of getting a fish definitely come here first for the best tips, advice, and customer service! read more

I'm not sure what happened to this place! Most recently it has gone downhill. The saltwater fish are mostly diseased and when I asked how they were being treated, I was told freshwater baths which won't cure Brook, it just provides temporary relief. The corals are way overpriced compared to Modern Aquatix, and those are looking pretty rough as well. I was told the their system is all ran on the same sump so they can't treat with medication. If that's the case then the coral can also carry parasites. Looks like we'll be frequenting Modern Aquatix from here on out. Better prices, the coral looks fantastic, and the fish are healthy. It's a shame because we spent a lot money at the Reef :( read more

Go to shop for aquarium supplies - best selection of live fish and live plants. The staff are knowledgeable and honest! I've overheard conversations such as will these fish be okay in the same tank and rather then just saying sure to make a sale the associates are always willing to give honest opinions. read more

We found a turtle in our pool. We decided it was so small it would not make it if released to the world. Decided to care for it till it got a little bigger and then release it. Read about care on line but since I have never cared for a turtle I went to the Reef for knowledge and supplies. I told the sale person about the small turtle we had in a bowl and he completely understood. I was then shocked at the suggestion that I needed a 60-100 gallon tank for such a small turtle but was informed that they grow very quickly. I ended up getting a 16 gallon tank. Salesperson also sold me lights, bulbs, water conditioner, food and gravel. I spent a large amount on all items, over $200. I asked the salesperson if my husband did not approve of items what the return policy was. He said as long as item had not been used and still in original packaging that I could return items. WELL, that is not the truth! When I got home I started rinsing the gravel, and then saw that the gravel was too small for the turtle. If gravel is smaller than the head of the turtle they will eat the gravel and could die. I stopped what I was doing, and looked at the other items. The lights and light fixture were almost larger than the tank. I got my receipt and saw that The Reef does not give refunds only store credit! I was upset and called the store and was told to come in the next day when the manager, Brandon would be there. I took another trip to the Reef to meet Brandon. He restated their refund policy about three times, but eventually returned the lamps and light fixture and gave me store credit. He would not give credit for the gravel since it had been opened and dumped. I understand that since the gravel was not in the bag that it was a problem, but I also know the sales rep gave me the 22$ bag of gravel for the turtle that was not appropriate for the turtle and had to dump in the grass since it was wet. Now I have a large credit at a store I have never been to before and will not go again. I thought going to the Reef I would get expert advice. I was wrong. read more

If you have an aquarium and live anywhere north of I-70, this is pretty much the only place you can (and should) go for your aquatic needs. They carry EVERYTHING you could possibly be need. However, due to the scarcity of competition, they sell out of the one thing that I always need: black worms (for my frog). They receive their shipment on Thursday and by Friday morning they're all gone. Everyone who works here is extremely knowledgeable about aquariums. However, trying to get someone to help you can be a chore as they're usually extremely busy. read more

I have a betta fish, 3 snails, 4 ghost shrimp, and now a dwarf crawfish in my tank. I was inexperienced with these new babies and everyone there is so helpful. I really appreciate the knowledge everyone has while being very kind and polite. They absolutely have all the products and knowledge you'd ever need! I really care about my animals and they looked at pictures of my tank and everything and helped me build the most optimal environment for all of them! They products are great prices and they take exquisite care of the creatures they sell as well. I'd much rather go here than any "pet store" that has half dead things for double the price. 10/10 highly recommend!! read more

My friend and I went into this store to get her a fish. Brandon was an amazing help. Very knowledgeable and patient as my friend had never had a fish before! Thank you guys at The Reef for continuing to go above and beyond. read more

The employees here have always been helpful and in general, the prices are the best you will find in the city. It is a very good place to go to make a purchase or simply to get advice. There's also a parrot. I've been keeping fish for years, and the last 2 I purchased, in 2009, are still alive today and looking good. I was impressed when a I witnessed a family (mom, dad, 3 young kids) wanting to buy an expensive, aggressive, but very colorful fish. An employee suggested that they might do best with a more peaceful fish...this fish was 1/10th the price of the original fish. Most stores-the chain stores-don't care what you buy. At The Reef, they'll make sure it's the right fish for you, especially if it's a fish you're adding to an established aquarium. The fish they originally wanted would've likely killed all the other fish in their aquarium. They sell bulk foods here which are a great deal and keep my fish looking great and very healthy. My tinfoil barbs especially enjoy the cichlid flakes-so weird! There are some GIANT fish in there which were donated/traded by people who could no longer keep them. Lots of cichlids, brackish water fish. Employees are very knowledgeable about the compatibility of various species for your home aquarium. read more

I love this place for live plants and snails, they have amazing prices on both. Both the olive and nerite snail I purchased for around $3 are happy, healthy, and very active. Snails I've bought from petco/petsmart were never nearly as active as those bought here. I also purchased a medium sized java fern for around $4 that would've cost me close to $10 elsewhere. I purchased a large piece of driftwood ($11) and java moss ($3) and made this attempt at a bonsai. Most of the negative reviews say the staff has poor customer service but I strongly disagree. Even though they were busy when I stopped in, I was helped promptly and the employees seemed knowledgeable and kind. read more

The Reef Aquarium Shop - bonsai!! - Aquarium Services Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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Some of these reviews.. wow. Do people need a parade thrown for them when they enter a store now? Here's my experience if your interested. I've been in the store 4-5 times and still do not even own a tank, each time I go in I ask a few more questions and get learn a little more. I was a complete noob before going in and have always been treated great considering my level of experience. Fyi they keep a marine biologist on staff! Do not feel intimidated if you feel the same, this is definitely the place to go to look, learn, or buy anything related to aquatics. I will say they do show respect for the hobby and fish so anyone looking for a carnival like fishbowl are better suited trying to throw rings around the top of pop bottles. Thanks for all your help and knowledge REEF! read more

The Reef Aquarium Shop - One of the salt water tanks to explore - Aquarium Services Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

During my visit to Indianapolis, I visited the local pet shop out of curiosity and to possibly pick up a few accessories for my terrarium and aquarium back in Hawaii. The Reef Shop features a wide range of rare and exotic salt and fresh water fish. I saw a handful of species I haven't seen before in other pet shops and even major aquariums around the world. The tanks were clean and the fish looked healthy. If I lived in Indianapolis, I would definitely come to The Reef often to stock up on fish and to get inspiration for my next tank upgrade. The prices for the tanks and accessories are cheaper than most found online through Amazon Prime and other vendors. There is a decent selection of tank accessories if you are looking to add flare to your tank. Say 'hi' to Gilbert the bumblebee grouper during your next visit. He is quite the charmer. read more

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The Reef is your one-stop shop for all legally sold things aquatic. Sure, there are three rooms of different fish: Clownfish, Starfish, little electric blue fish, big, long-nosed thingies, and even ready-made aquarium systems with overhead lamps and ethereal barnacle-like thingies, the ultimate in living art. You can also get fish food, bowls and tanks in every shape and size, and pretty much any accessory you'll need for underwater creatures. Plus, some words of wisdom littered around the tanks. Did you know that tapping on a fish's glass sounds as loud to them as it sounds for a human to stand an inch away from a speaker at a rock concert? So says one Reef 8 x 11 card. read more

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I'm new to the saltwater aquarium hobby and everyone always recommends The Reef being the spot in Indy to go. In some ways, it's an amazing store. You can count on the fish, the coral, the supplies, everything, to be high quality. I don't ever have concerns about purchasing a sick fish or being unhappy with a purchase. The Reef knows their stuff and they only sell things that will make customers happy. The remodel of their saltwater room is impressive. As of October 2018, they're still working on getting their supply back up but they're definitely getting there. Check out their Facebook page for the latest information about them. Every Thursday they post unboxing videos of what they have gotten in. I love that they do that to inform people before they make the drive out there. It can be a little pricier than some other shops, but the Reef has recently acknowledged that and made some changes to make their prices more competitive. You can get 30% off a fish instead of having the warranty on the fish. I like going to the Reef if I'm looking for something specific or high quality. They have more unique and "higher end" fish than where I typically go. The size and quality of their crabs/snails/clean up crew are much better too. They are also able to special order something for you. The thing that disappoints me about the Reef is their customer service. Even when they aren't busy, the employees have typically just talked to each other or gone about their business. I don't get welcomed or offered help until I ask for it. Last time, I looked around for 25 minutes without a word from any employer and finally had to ask someone for assistance. If I ask questions about certain fish (remember, I'm new to the hobby too so I definitely like some guidance), they aren't as helpful as they could be. They are definitely knowledgeable though. They're never rude, but they never exactly seem like they're happy to help. I'll continue to come here because I've always been happy with my purchases, but I do hope their customer service improves. read more

Got the five stars because of the unique character that this shop has. There is no other place like this in Indianapolis. Solid selection of fish, aquariums and plants. Every time I have visited-or shopped I'm greeted by knowledgeable staff that seem invested in their job. Go to the Reef you won't be disappointed. Skip the big box stores and support boutique artisan businesses. read more

I'm in there at least once a week. Can't say enough about the knowledge and professionalism of the employees. Would rather drive 30-40 minutes to go there rather than petsmart. Hell of a selection too. read more