Exotic Aquatics just announced they are closing. I had already written this blog and thought about not posting it. Since they are still selling off all their stock and supplies, including tanks, I decided it best to go ahead and post it. The following is what I wrote a few days ago after visiting them last weekend. Be sure to read to the end. All photos were taken on May 7th, 2022.
Boulder has two LFS which both serve the fresh and saltwater hobbyist. I like them both for different reasons. Exotic Aquatics would be my go-to store because of the more intimate and spacious feel I get. I just feel more at home there. They are located at 2888 30th Street Boulder, Colorado 80301 and are open Tue – Fri, 11:00-6pm, Sat: 11:00-5pm, and Sun: 12:00-5pm. I will cover Aqua Imports in the next blog.
As I have said before the aquarium hobby is a personal thing and we like what we like. It’s not to be judged as good or bad. I know most folks like the other Boulder LFS but then I am not “most folks”. Let me share what I like about Exotic Aquatics. Walking into the store one is greeted with options, go to the left and you have tanks, supplies, aquascaping stuff, and more. Go to the right and there is a simple loop of tanks, larger tanks than most stores have. I like the spacious feel of these tanks and while they could be better maintained the fish are all healthy and seem happy. Exotic Aquatics has been around Boulder for 40 years and this shows in the tanks. They have only been in this location though for about 4 years. When I was there, they had very few saltwater fish because of supply chain issues (I suppose it is more to do with running out of funds). The selection of freshwater, mainly cichlids, is diverse and abundant. If in search of aquatic plants this is not the store I would go to, though I still recommend you stop in and see what they have to offer. As per usual, if you don’t see what you seek, then ask. LFS’s are based on good service and selection. They are there to please!
In summary, Exotic Aquatics should be on your list of LFS to visit in Boulder (Sooner rather than later). It has a warm open feel which I really like in a fish store. They have everything an aquarist would need including live food, though this does vary depending on the season. Always call before making a long trip to a LFS in search of a specific item. Of all the LFS around the Front Range, not many carry live food, so this alone is worth the visit. (See the ps below)
Sequoia Elisabeth
ps - “It's with a sad heart that I announce the closing of Exotic Aquatics. We've had some ups and lots of downs over the last few years and the economics have finally caught up with us. We've been part of the Boulder community since 1979, but unfortunately our time has come. We sincerely thank each of you for your support over the years.
All livestock and dry goods are 40% off until gone! Lots of cichlids still in stock.
All used shop tanks are $1 per gallon!
Everything must go!
We do have some nice tank racks that are new and a number of 40 gallon tanks that are only a few years old.
Stop in and say good bye!” (Quoted from Facebook, Mer Maid, 5/11/22)
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