Yes. Petco locations throughout the U.S. offer live fish, from bettas and tetras to mollies and zebra fish. Many varieties of freshwater fish come in an array of colors, making it easy to customize your aquarium's look and feel. We carry an array of species from aggressive and semi-aggressive to schooling fish, so you can find the right fish to fit the size and style aquarium you want. First-time pet parents often choose to take home a betta, as they are beautiful to look at and make a great species for those getting started with aquarium keeping. In some states, we also carry other types of aquatic life, such as live plants and invertebrates.
Petco does test aquarium water to help ensure your aquarium is a clean and cared for home for your pet. Go to your local Petco Pet Care Center for free in-store aquarium water testing, a great option for new pet parents. More seasoned aquarists may prefer to test water at home. We offer home test kits that measure pH, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate levels for your home aquarium.
Petco does accept unwanted fish. If you have a healthy freshwater fish you can no longer care for, you can bring it to your local Petco for donation. It is wise to call ahead to check if that location is able to accept a fish donation at that time, as they may have limited space available for donated fish. Before you choose to adopt a fish or group of fish, make sure you know everything involved so you are fully prepared to care for your pets. If you are unsure whether a fish is the right pet for you, take a look at our Freshwater Aquarium Guide for tips and insights.
Petco guarantees returns of freshwater aquatic life inside a designated time frame. For 30 days, you can receive a full refund for freshwater fish purchased in our Pet Care Centers. All fish should have a properly established habitat; a receipt is required, and we recommend providing a water sample with your return. By testing your water, we can help check if your tank is ready for another fish, or if it may need some work to prepare it for a new fish.
Fish and aquatic life purchased on petco.com are guaranteed to stay alive for 7 days from the day they arrive at your home. If this is not your experience, we will refund your money to the original form of payment. For returns on online orders, you must contact Customer Service (1-877-738-6742).
Due to the more delicate nature of saltwater aquatic life, we do not offer a guarantee. If you have questions about returning aquatic life or other purchases to Petco, please see our Easy Returns guide.
Yes, most Petco Pet Care Centers carry saltwater aquatic life and accessories. While not typically recommended for new or inexperienced fish parents, saltwater aquatic life can make dynamic and rewarding pets. Aquarium keepers looking to enhance their aquascapes will find options from butterflyfish to tangs, along with accessories suited specifically to saltwater aquatic life. We offer a wide variety of foods, water treatments and conditioners, supplies, décor and more so you can help your aquatic life thrive.
We do. Live plants are often an important element of an aquarium; they help filter the water and make your pet feel at home in a more natural environment. Choose from aquarium plants of various sizes and shades to create a pleasing aquascape and provide your aquatic life plenty of places to rest or explore. We also carry options for aquarium plant care, like fertilizers, supplements, CO2 kits and aquarium lights.
Yes, we sell 100% aquacultured and maricultured corals that have been raised in aquariums and tropical-based coral farms instead of collected from the wild. At Petco, we are strongly committed to the protection of marine life and want you to enjoy aquarium keeping without worrying about environmental impact.
Live corals are fun and interesting additions to aquariums and come in many shapes and sizes. Expert and beginning aquarium enthusiasts can choose from a range of corals that fit their level of knowledge. We also carry décor sculptures that mimic the look and feel of live coral.
Freshwater fish are generally easier to care for and are a popular choice for beginners. Saltwater fish typically require more specialized equipment and maintenance.
Many freshwater fish are well suited for beginners because they are hardy and easier to care for. Store partners in El Cajon can help recommend fish based on your tank size, experience level, and setup.
Petco stores in El Cajon carry aquarium supplies including tanks, filters, heaters, lighting, water conditioners, substrates, décor, and maintenance essentials for freshwater and saltwater aquariums.
