LFS in Near Tampa

Are there any marine enthusiasts in Tampa, FL? There are several LFS where I am, but there are problems. The two stores with the good helpful people have limited choice of livestock and corals, and many are not in great shape. One that is good has atrocious prices, for example $200 for a 3 inch purple tang, $45 for 2.5" yellow tang. That's what I paid, but the specimens were outstanding. Then there is the big one, who have good pricing ($24 for 3 inch coral beauty) and good specimens, but with too many sales people trying to make commission, the advice is poor, unreliable, and they have attitude problems.

Any help will be appreciated.

 

Try google maps

 

Is marine warehouse aquarium one of the ones you listed? It is off West Hillsborough Ave. ( 8021 West Hillsborough Ave. Tampa, FL 33615 ). I have been there a couple times but never bought anything, just did some browsing while I was in the area. I can't recall whether they are reasonable or anything though.

$45 doesn't sound that bad for a 2.5" yellow tang. They are $40 - $50 on live aquaria. Small which is 1.5" - 2.5" is $39.99, medium which is 2.5" - 3" is $49.99.

If I were you I would shop at the last one. The one with the good specimens and good prices but poor salesmen. I recommend asking for advice here rather than at the LFS, and go knowing what you want.

 

from what I hear world wide corals in orlando is well worth the drive.

~Will.

 

I'll vouch for that. Some stuff is pretty pricey but you can't beat their selection of corals. If you are looking for fish I'd say its not worth the drive but it might be for corals.

I got some mushrooms there recently that I think was a pretty good deal. I paid $30 for a small rock with like 6 mushrooms on it. Two of which are the size of my fists.

 

Fish and Other Icthy stuff is great. Also Paul at Westside Pets in south tampa is a great guy that gets good stuff in.