Alpha Aquatic Arts (formerly The Purrfect aquarium) Introduce
For aquatic enthusiasts in Connecticut, finding a local store that offers more than just a standard selection of fish and supplies can be a challenge. The passion for keeping tropical fish and creating a thriving underwater world requires a source that understands the intricate balance of a successful aquarium. This is where Alpha Aquatic Arts, formerly known as The Purrfect Aquarium, steps in. Located in Old Lyme, this small business has established itself as a dedicated haven for tropical fish and all things aquatic. It’s a place where hobbyists, from complete beginners to seasoned pros, can find high-quality fish, essential supplies, and, most importantly, a wealth of knowledge to support their passion. Unlike big-box pet stores, Alpha Aquatic Arts focuses specifically on the needs of the aquatic hobby, ensuring a specialized and curated experience. The store's commitment to the health of its fish and the success of its customers is evident from the moment you step inside.
Alpha Aquatic Arts serves as a vital resource for the Connecticut community, providing not just products but a personalized service that is often hard to come by. The owner and staff are known for being approachable and knowledgeable, ready to engage in conversation and offer advice. This is particularly valuable for someone new to the hobby, who may have many questions about tank cycling, water parameters, and species compatibility. The store’s mission seems to go beyond a simple transaction; it's about fostering a community of successful and responsible fish keepers. The curated selection of fish and plants reflects a deep understanding of the hobby, and the well-maintained tanks are a testament to their dedication. This specialized focus ensures that every product on the shelf and every fish in the tank has been chosen with the health of the aquatic ecosystem in mind.
Alpha Aquatic Arts is conveniently located at 90 Halls Rd in Old Lyme, Connecticut. Its location makes it easily accessible for residents throughout the region, including those in nearby towns like Old Saybrook, East Lyme, and Niantic. The store is situated in an area that is straightforward to navigate, with an accessible parking lot that makes visiting a hassle-free experience. A crucial feature of the store's accessibility is its commitment to inclusivity. The establishment boasts a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which ensures that all members of the community can visit and explore the world of tropical fish without encountering physical barriers. This thoughtful consideration for customer needs reflects the store's commitment to being a welcoming space for everyone.
The store is designed for what is considered a "quick visit," meaning it is easy to get in, find what you need, and get back out, though many customers find themselves wanting to stay and chat with the knowledgeable staff. This efficiency is a benefit for those with a busy schedule, but the friendly atmosphere encourages a more leisurely pace for those who wish to browse and learn. The store also offers onsite services, which can include expert advice, water testing, and other services that help customers maintain a healthy aquarium. Payments are simple and convenient, with the store accepting both credit cards and debit cards, making it easy for customers to complete their purchases. The combination of a convenient location, easy access, and efficient service makes Alpha Aquatic Arts a go-to spot for aquatic supplies in Connecticut.
Alpha Aquatic Arts specializes in providing a variety of products and services tailored specifically for the tropical fish hobby.
Healthy Tropical Fish: The store maintains a wide selection of healthy fish. The fish are kept in well-established tanks that are specifically tailored to the needs of each species. This careful attention to the aquatic environment means that customers are purchasing fish that are in prime condition, a crucial factor for a successful aquarium.
Aquarium Supplies and Equipment: They offer a comprehensive range of supplies, including tanks, filters, heaters, lighting, and decorations. This ensures that customers can find everything they need to set up and maintain their aquariums, from beginner kits to more advanced equipment.
Live Plants and Substrates: For those interested in creating a vibrant, natural ecosystem, the store provides a selection of live aquatic plants and appropriate substrates. Live plants are essential for many aquarium setups, providing natural filtration, oxygenation, and a healthy environment for the fish.
Expert Consultation: The staff provides valuable onsite consultation and advice. Whether you have questions about water chemistry, fish compatibility, or tank cycling, the team is available to help. This guidance is especially important for new hobbyists who are just starting their journey.
There are several notable features and highlights that make Alpha Aquatic Arts a standout business in Connecticut.
Knowledgeable and Friendly Staff: The staff is consistently described in reviews as being extremely knowledgeable and easy to talk to. Their willingness to share information and offer guidance is a significant asset to the store.
Focus on Fish Health: The store’s commitment to keeping fish healthy is a major highlight. Customers praise the clean, well-kept tanks and the fact that the specific needs of each fish species are taken into consideration. This focus on animal welfare is a key differentiator from less specialized stores.
Small Business Feel: As a small, locally-owned business, Alpha Aquatic Arts offers a level of personal service that is often missing from larger chains. This creates a community-like atmosphere where customers feel valued and supported.
Accessibility: The store’s wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot make it a welcoming destination for all customers. This commitment to accessibility is a key part of their customer-first approach.
To get in touch with Alpha Aquatic Arts and plan your visit, you can use the following contact information.
Address: 90 Halls Rd, Old Lyme, CT 06371, USA
Phone: (860) 598-9914
Mobile Phone: +1 860-598-9914
For any aquatic hobbyist in Connecticut, Alpha Aquatic Arts is worth choosing for several compelling reasons. The primary one is the store's deep specialization and expertise. Unlike a general pet store, this business is solely focused on the intricate world of tropical fish, which means the staff’s knowledge is unparalleled. While one customer did have a less than ideal initial experience regarding tank cycling advice, the overall consensus is that the staff is easy to talk to and the fish are kept in excellent health, which is the most critical factor for a new aquarium. The dedication to maintaining a clean and healthy environment for their livestock is a testament to their professionalism and passion. Furthermore, the store’s role as a small, local business means every purchase supports the Connecticut community. The convenience of its location in Old Lyme, combined with its commitment to accessibility and customer service, makes it an ideal destination. Whether you're a seasoned aquarist looking for a rare species or a beginner needing guidance on your first tank setup, Alpha Aquatic Arts offers the quality products and expert advice needed to succeed. It's more than just a store; it’s a vital hub for the local aquatic hobbyist community.
Alpha Aquatic Arts (formerly The Purrfect aquarium) Details
From the business
- Small business
Service options
- Onsite services
- Delivery
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Planning
- Quick visit
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Alpha Aquatic Arts (formerly The Purrfect aquarium) Photos










Alpha Aquatic Arts (formerly The Purrfect aquarium) Location
Alpha Aquatic Arts (formerly The Purrfect aquarium)
90 Halls Rd, Old Lyme, CT 06371, USA
Alpha Aquatic Arts (formerly The Purrfect aquarium) Reviews
tankplantslivestocksaltwaterhealthyknowledgefreshwaterfenceaquaristreef
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Absolutely a wonderful store! All the staff is extremely knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and they won’t steer you wrong. The fish are kept healthy in well established tanks with the specific needs of each specie kept in mind.
July 27 · Eliah NolinOwner is nice and the shop is well kept and clean, however when I went in he sold me a school of Corydoras and told me I didn't need to have my tank cycled before adding them, which is just not at all true. This is my first time setting up a tank, so I took his advice (and paid him about $50 for livestock that HE recommended).A week later I've lost three of the Corydoras and I've had to shell out another $50 for chemicals to balance the ammonia in the water to try and save the other fish in the tank.
July 01 · FoxI recently went to Alfa searching for a Honey Gourami as a show fish for my 15 gallon planted tank.I found the most colorful, energetic, playful honey I’ve ever seen. He’s super healthy and has such a beautiful pattern to him - this is the first time I’ve ever seen one with reddish fins!He’s got a great little personality, and was zooming around checking out my shrimp and Cory cats as soon as I released him. When I come in the room he comes to the front of the tank and will follow me around the sides as if to say, “Look at me!!!”Overall great experience, reasonably priced, kind staff and super healthy fish.07/25/24Update!!!Once again super friendly, knowledgeable staff. I went back to get some juli corydoras, and these guys are so lively!!! Adding a picture of them having their first family dinner while the Honey monitors them.
July 25 · Bethany CrumWow what a hidden gem . My husband and I have been planning on a large tank in the future after our home is built and with it being a rainy day wanted to check some fish out and came across this store on google . Holy cow ! It is beautiful, the fish are so well cared for and the owner is extremely knowledgeable. Even the comets “feeder fish” were in a clean nice tank . I’ve never been to a pet store and seen thriving betta fish . We are planning a large guppy/planted tank in acouple months after my husband is done building the stand and we got some excellent ideas .I highly recommend to anyone in the hobby new or life long . The owner even told us he does a program that gives free tanks to children . How wonderful .Looking forward to being frequent customers of this shop and will refer all of our friends
November 23 · Paige EspositoI’ve been going here for several years and the service and livestock quality is always top notch. I’m an experienced aquarist (saltwater, freshwater, planted, reef) and his stock is always vibrant and healthy. Recently custom ordered some juvenile discus and they are beautiful and healthy (pics included). Quality store setup with custom plumped saltwater systems and a nice coral frag tank. A+ highly recommend!
January 26 · Nathan Hall
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