WE'RE MOVING! 📍 New Location: 6622 W. North Ave, Chicago. STAY TUNED FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS.

WE'RE MOVING! 📍 New Location: 6622 W. North Ave, Chicago. STAY TUNED FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS.

  • A green telescopic lift truck with the label 'Sunbelt Rentals' is lifting a large wrapped pallet in an urban outdoor setting. The pallet is being positioned near a tree, with construction in progress in the background. Two workers are present, one operating the lift and the other observing, near a black metal fence and sidewalk.

    Chicago’s Trusted Aquarium Services

    Professional aquarium design, installation, and maintenance across Chicago and the suburbs. From freshwater to saltwater and reef tanks, we keep your aquariums healthy, beautiful, and hassle-free.

  • Get Hooked on Savings 🎣

    Sign up for exclusive hobbyist tips and new arrivals. Plus, take $5 OFF your first purchase.

  • Aquarium tank with small fish, green plants, and a snake on the bottom.

    Splash Quarantine Fish Sale — 25% Off Wed–Fri

    New fish arrive weekly, offering a rotating mix of freshwater favorites and saltwater standouts. One of the best ways to add professionally acclimated fish to your tank.

  • A display of fish tanks filled with various types of fish at a market or shop.

    Tropic Marin® Is Here

    Trusted by professional reef-keepers around the world, Tropic Marin® delivers unmatched accuracy in testing, dosing, and salt formulation. Whether you’re perfecting your parameters or maintaining long-term coral health, you can now find the industry’s most respected reef-care line right here at Big Fish Aquarium.

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    ONLINE ONLY SALES

    Exclusive online deals! Limited-time savings on cleanup crew and frozen food bundles

    🐠 Buy 3, Get 1 Free on Select Frozen Fish Food

  • A close-up of a fluorescent coral with elongated, tentacle-like structures glowing green and white, against a dark background.

    SALTWATER CORALS

    Vibrant. Resilient. Stunning.
    Handpicked for growing reef tanks.

  • Multiple orange and black patterned freshwater angelfish swimming in an aquarium.

    NEW FRESHWATER ARRIVALS

    Bright colors. Peaceful swimmers.
    Perfect for planted tanks.

What are you searching for?

Trusted Brands for a Thriving Aquarium

Big Fish Aquarium is a premier aquatic pet store specializing in healthy live fish, custom reef tanks, and expert saltwater aquarium maintenance. Serving enthusiasts with the highest quality livestock and supplies since 2022, we invite you to shop our most trusted aquarium brands—selected by our team for quality and performance.

We carry top names like Fritz Aquatics, Ocean Nutrition, HYDROS, and Tropic Marin—known for reliable fish foods, water treatments, filtration, and reef care. Whether you’re running a freshwater tank or a saltwater reef, these brands are chosen for proven results and livestock safety.

Tropic Marin Professional STANDARD ICP Seawater Laboratory Analysis Tropic Marin Professional STANDARD ICP Seawater Laboratory Analysis Tropic Marin Professional STANDARD ICP Seawater Laboratory Analysis Tropic Marin Professional STANDARD ICP Seawater Laboratory Analysis
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Tropic Marin Professional STANDARD ICP Seawater Laboratory Analysis
from $35.00

Tropic Marin’s Professional STANDARD ICP test provides high-precision measurement of the most important seawater parameters — calcium, magnesium, potassium, strontium, and trace elements — directly from your tank sample.

This mail-in kit offers easy sample collection, secure laboratory analysis, and detailed digital results to guide precise dosing and maintenance routines. Perfect for saltwater aquariums of any scale that need consistent water chemistry tracking.

Why We Like It:
Reliable, professional-grade water testing with straightforward sample submission and clear results — ideal for hobbyists or professionals maintaining stable reef conditions.

Sicce XStream SDC Wave Pump (270 - 2250 GPH) Sicce XStream SDC Wave Pump (270 - 2250 GPH)
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Sicce XStream SDC Wave Pump (270 - 2250 GPH)
$250.00

The Sicce XStream SDC Wave Pump is designed to deliver impressive performance with a flow range of 270 to 2250 gallons per hour. This versatile pump is ideal for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums, providing adjustable flow rates to suit the specific needs of your aquatic environment.

Featuring a compact design, the XStream SDC is easy to install and maintain. Its efficient engineering ensures low energy consumption while delivering strong flow, making it an eco-friendly choice for aquarium enthusiasts. The pump operates quietly, minimizing disturbances in your aquatic habitat.

One of the standout features of the XStream SDC is its smart control capabilities. Equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity, users can easily adjust settings and monitor performance through a mobile app. This functionality adds convenience and enables precise management of water movement to enhance the health of your aquatic life.

The Sicce XStream SDC Wave Pump is constructed from durable materials, ensuring longevity and reliability. Its versatility makes it suitable for various applications, including creating waves, enhancing circulation, or simulating natural currents within your aquarium setup.

Overall, the XStream SDC is a powerful and adaptable option for aquarists looking to optimize their aquarium environment while ensuring the well-being of their fish and plants.

Don't want to handle the installation? Our Chicago specialists provide professional setup and ongoing maintenance for this equipment. Explore Chicago Maintenance Services.

Frozen Krill - Flat Packs Frozen Krill - Flat Packs Frozen Krill - Flat Packs Frozen Krill - Flat Packs
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Frozen Krill - Flat Packs
from $7.00

Give your fish a nutrient-packed diet with SFB Frozen Krill Flat Packs! Sourced from high-quality Euphausia superba, this premium krill is rich in protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, and natural color-enhancing carotenoids, promoting vibrant colors and optimal health in both freshwater and marine species.

Key Benefits:
✔ High-Protein Formula – Supports growth and muscle development
✔ Enhances Natural Colors – Rich in carotenoids to intensify fish pigmentation
✔ Ideal for Carnivorous Fish – Perfect for large cichlids, marine fish, and predatory species
✔ Easy-to-Use Flat Pack – Simple portioning for convenient feeding

Feeding Instructions:
Thaw desired amount, rinse, and feed to fish. Avoid overfeeding.

Ingredients:
Whole Krill (Euphausia superba)

Storage:
Keep frozen. Do not refreeze after thawing.

A top-choice frozen treat for your fish, providing the essential nutrients they need for a healthy, active life!

LifeRock Reef Forest Extension Kit LifeRock Reef Forest Extension Kit
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LifeRock Reef Forest Extension Kit
$275.00

The LifeRock Reef Forest Extension Kit is an ideal addition to enhance your existing LifeRock Reef Forest setup. Designed to seamlessly connect with your current system, this extension kit provides extra space for coral growth and increases the biological filtration capacity of your aquarium.

Key Features:

  • Natural, porous structure: Promotes beneficial bacterial colonization critical for maintaining water quality.

  • Easy integration: Specifically engineered to attach directly to LifeRock Reef Forest modules without needing extra tools or modifications.

  • Durable and safe materials: Made from aquarium-safe, non-toxic components to ensure the health of all aquatic life.

  • Increased surface area: Supports a thriving reef environment by allowing more coral placement and habitat complexity.

The LifeRock Reef Forest Extension Kit is perfect for hobbyists looking to expand their reef environment while maintaining the natural aesthetics and functionality of their aquarium ecosystem. Trust Big Fish Aquarium to help you integrate this kit smoothly with expert guidance and support.

Mystery Snail – Mixed Mystery Snail – Mixed Mystery Snail – Mixed
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Mystery Snail – Mixed
from $5.00

General Stock Mystery Snail – Mixed (1)

Add a unique touch to your aquarium with our General Stock Mystery Snail. Each snail is hand-selected to offer a variety of colors and patterns, providing natural algae control and enhancing the visual appeal of your aquatic environment. Known for their hardiness and easy care, these snails are suitable for most freshwater tanks.

  • Size: Approximately 1.5 to 2 inches

  • Color: Mixed varieties

  • Care: Easy, peaceful, and compatible with most community fish

  • Benefits: Efficient algae eaters and scavengers, helping maintain tank cleanliness

Perfect for both beginners and experienced aquarists looking to diversify their tank inhabitants with a low-maintenance, attractive species.

FRITZ EXPEL-F 20 COUNT FRITZ EXPEL-F 20 COUNT
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FRITZ EXPEL-F 20 COUNT
$21.00

Fritz Expel-F is an antiparasitic treatment formulated specifically for freshwater and marine aquaria. Each box contains 20 premeasured doses designed to eliminate external fish parasites such as flukes, ich (protozoan parasites), and other ectoparasites. The product is intended for spot treatment of infected fish and for quarantine use.

Key Features

  • Quantity: 20 individual doses per box

  • Use: Treats external parasites (flukes, ich, other ectoparasites)

  • Aquarium type: Suitable for freshwater and marine systems

  • Dosing: Premeasured doses for accurate, convenient application

  • Application: Designed for bath or targeted treatment rather than continuous whole-tank dosing

Benefits

  • Convenience: Premeasured packets remove the guesswork and reduce the risk of overdosing

  • Effectiveness: Formulated to act on a broad range of external parasites commonly seen in aquarium fish

  • Safety: When used as directed, safe for most fish; minimizes stress with short-duration treatments compared to continuous medications

  • Quarantine-ready: Useful for treating new or sick fish in hospital/quarantine tanks before introduction to main displays

Usage Instructions (General Guidance)

  • Read the label and instructions included with the product before use.

  • Use in a quarantine or hospital tank when possible to protect invertebrates, corals, and sensitive species in display tanks.

  • Prepare a treatment bath by dissolving one dose in the specified volume of water as directed on the packet.

  • Move the affected fish into the treatment bath and monitor closely for signs of improvement or distress.

  • Follow recommended exposure time and number of treatments; do not exceed maximum stated concentration or duration.

  • Perform water changes and water quality checks after treatment as recommended.

Safety and Compatibility

  • Not recommended for use in tanks containing invertebrates (shrimp, snails), corals, or sensitive species unless the label explicitly states compatibility.

  • Consult product instructions regarding use with filtration, activated carbon, and UV sterilizers; remove or bypass as directed to ensure efficacy.

  • Avoid concurrent use with other medications unless approved by the manufacturer or a veterinarian.

  • Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children and pets.

When to Use

  • Visible signs of ectoparasitic infection (white spots, flashing/scratching, rapid breathing, clamped fins)

  • New fish arriving from a store or another system (as a precautionary quarantine treatment)

  • After observing parasites on tankmates despite regular maintenance

Packaging

  • Boxes contain 20 individual treatment packets, clearly labeled with dosing information.

Manufacturer Notes

  • Follow the manufacturer's label for exact dosing instructions and safety warnings.

  • If unsure about diagnosing the problem or choosing a treatment, consult an aquatic veterinarian or experienced aquarium professional.

For assistance with application, compatibility with your aquarium inhabitants, or alternative treatment options, contact Big Fish Aquarium for expert guidance.

TROPIC MARIN ®

〰️

SICCE

〰️

OCEAN NUTRITION

〰️

CORALVUE

〰️

TROPIC MARIN ® 〰️ SICCE 〰️ OCEAN NUTRITION 〰️ CORALVUE 〰️

JOIN THE BIG FISH MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM

Clownfish swimming in a dark blue aquarium with rocks and coral

Included:

$5 coupon for livestock every month

10 gallons of free RO freshwater with $10 purchase

2-day warranty on fish out of quarantine

Free basic strip test

A freshwater aquarium with various small fish swimming among green aquatic plants and a few dried leaves on the substrate, with some fish near a pinkish sponge or coral piece on the substrate.

Included:

$10 Livestock coupon every month 

10 gallons of free RO freshwater with $10 purchase 

7-day guarantee on fish out of QT Free advanced water tests

5% Discount on all purchases

Underwater scene with various green and purple aquatic plants

Included:

$20 Livestock coupon every month 

10 gallons of free RO freshwater with $10 purchase 

7-day guarantee on fish out of QT Free advanced water tests

10% Discount on all purchases

The Complete Aquarium Experience: Premium Live Fish & Expert Services

Freshwater and Saltwater aquarium fish livestock variety
Professional saltwater aquarium water testing and maintenance service
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Colorful tropical fish swimming among coral and rocks in an underwater reef scene.

Join the Big Fish Community

Dive into the conversation! The Big Fish Aquarium Forum is where local hobbyists, reef enthusiasts, and beginners alike come together to ask questions, share tank setups, and trade advice. Whether you’re troubleshooting water chemistry or showing off your latest coral addition, this is your space to connect and learn from fellow aquarists.

Chicago Aquarium Services & Design

Why Choose Big Fish Aquarium?

Verified Livestock: Every fish is quarantined and inspected for health to ensure a thriving start for your aquarium.

Custom Reef Consulting: We design and install professional-grade reef systems tailored to your space and lifestyle.

Professional Water Testing: On-site analysis for pH, salinity, and nitrates. Learn about Saltwater Chemistry and how we maintain perfect parameters for our clients.

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