C-MACS Aquarium - CLT: Your Go-To for Aquatic Life and Expertise in Charlotte, NC

C-MACS Aquarium - CLT Introduce

For aquatic enthusiasts across North Carolina, especially those in the bustling Charlotte metropolitan area, C-MACS Aquarium - CLT stands out as a dedicated hub for all things related to fish, coral, and comprehensive aquarium care. Located conveniently on South Tryon Street, this establishment is more than just a pet store; it's a specialized aquarium destination designed to cater to both novice hobbyists and experienced aquarists. C-MACS Aquarium - CLT is committed to providing a diverse selection of healthy aquatic life, essential supplies, and expert guidance to help you create and maintain thriving underwater worlds in your home or business.

The team at C-MACS Aquarium - CLT understands the intricate balance required to sustain a vibrant aquarium. They pride themselves on their extensive knowledge and passion for the aquatic hobby, aiming to ensure that every customer feels confident and well-equipped to care for their fish and corals. While a recent customer review highlighted a concern regarding fish health and water testing discrepancies, it's also important to note the overwhelmingly positive feedback emphasizing the staff's friendliness, in-depth knowledge, and the perceived quality and health of the fish and store environment. Many customers "LOVE this store!" and appreciate being able to "look at all of the fish in it without feeling bad for them," indicating a generally high standard of care for their livestock. This commitment to quality and customer education positions C-MACS Aquarium - CLT as a valuable resource for the North Carolina aquatic community, fostering a deeper appreciation and successful engagement with the aquatic hobby.

C-MACS Aquarium - CLT is conveniently located at 11112 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28273, USA. This address places the store in the popular Steele Creek area of South Charlotte, making it highly accessible for residents throughout the city and surrounding areas. South Tryon Street is a major commercial artery, ensuring straightforward navigation and ease of access whether you are coming from Uptown Charlotte, Ballantyne, or other parts of Mecklenburg County.

The store's location within Steele Creek, a well-developed and growing part of Charlotte, means that there is typically ample parking available, contributing to a stress-free shopping experience. This ease of access is a significant advantage for customers who may be transporting delicate aquatic life or larger aquarium equipment. For North Carolina residents interested in the aquatic hobby, the prime positioning of C-MACS Aquarium - CLT ensures that expert advice, a wide selection of fish, and essential supplies are never too far away. This thoughtful placement reinforces their role as a central and convenient destination for aquarists across the Charlotte metropolitan area. One customer even noted that for those in Concord, C-MACS is "the best aquarium store in Charlotte area hands down," despite the drive, highlighting its perceived accessibility and quality.

C-MACS Aquarium - CLT offers a comprehensive range of products and services specifically tailored to the needs of freshwater and saltwater aquarium enthusiasts.

Large Selection of Freshwater Fish: A wide variety of freshwater fish species, catering to different tank sizes and experience levels.
Extensive Selection of Saltwater Fish: A diverse array of healthy saltwater fish, including various species suitable for marine aquariums.
Live Corals and Invertebrates: A selection of live corals and other invertebrates to enhance the biodiversity and aesthetic appeal of saltwater reef tanks.
Aquarium Maintenance Services: Professional on-site maintenance for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums, including:
- Algae removal from all aquarium panels.
- Décor cleaning.
- Equipment checks for proper operation.
- Inside and outside aquarium cleaning.
- Hood/light plate cleaning.
- Automatic feeder refills (if applicable).
- Maintenance log sheet completion.
- Fish health checks (signs of disease or bullying).
- Medication application when necessary.
- Water chemistry analysis.
- Gravel vacuuming to remove debris and waste (unless it's a reef tank with a deep sand bed).
- Water changes (with reverse osmosis saltwater for marine tanks).
- Filter cleaning and media changes.
- Protein skimmer and venturi valve cleaning (for saltwater).
- Water chemistry adjustments as needed.
Aquarium Designer Services: Custom aquarium design and installation for both residential and commercial locations, creating unique aquatic displays that seamlessly blend into various spaces.
Aquarium Supplies: A large in-stock selection of essential aquarium equipment, including tanks, fish food, decorations, filters, heaters, lighting, and water conditioners.
Expert Advice and Education: Staff dedicated to educating customers on fish care, aquarium setup, and maintenance, aiming to provide knowledge for informed purchases.

C-MACS Aquarium - CLT prides itself on several key features that contribute to its standing as a prominent aquarium store in the Charlotte area.

Knowledgeable and Friendly Staff: Consistently highlighted in customer reviews, the staff is described as "extremely friendly and knowledgeable," capable of answering in-depth questions and providing detailed guidance on aquatic care. This expertise is crucial for both beginners and seasoned aquarists.
High Quality of Fish and Store Environment: Customers frequently commend the "quality of both the store and all of the fish in it." The sentiment of being able to "look at all of the fish in it without feeling bad for them" suggests a well-maintained and healthy environment for the livestock. They focus on offering "healthiest and happiest in the region."
Specialization in Aquatic Life: Unlike general pet stores, C-MACS Aquarium - CLT specializes exclusively in aquariums, fish, corals, and related supplies. This dedicated focus means a broader selection and deeper expertise in the niche.
Comprehensive Maintenance Services: Their professional aquarium maintenance packages cover all aspects of tank upkeep, offering peace of mind for those who prefer expert assistance to ensure their aquatic display remains "clean and healthy."
Custom Aquarium Design: The ability to design and build unique, custom aquariums for both residential and commercial spaces allows clients to have truly personalized aquatic features.
Family-Run/Owned Business: As noted by a Reddit user, the store is family-run/owned, which often contributes to a more personal and dedicated customer service experience.
Diverse Livestock Selection: They offer a large variety of both fresh and saltwater fish, as well as corals and invertebrates, catering to a wide range of aquatic interests.

For inquiries regarding fish availability, aquarium maintenance, custom tank designs, or general aquatic advice, C-MACS Aquarium - CLT can be reached using the following contact information.

Address: 11112 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28273, USA

Phone: (704) 910-3537

Mobile Phone: +1 704-910-3537

For residents of North Carolina, particularly those in the Charlotte area with a passion for aquatic life, C-MACS Aquarium - CLT on South Tryon Street is a highly suitable and essential resource. Its specialization in fish, corals, and comprehensive aquarium services distinguishes it from general pet stores, offering a depth of knowledge and product selection that serious aquarists require. Despite an isolated concern about water testing and fish health from one customer, the overwhelming positive sentiment from other reviews emphasizes the store's dedication to maintaining healthy livestock and providing expert, friendly advice.

Locals benefit immensely from their wide selection of healthy freshwater and saltwater fish, live corals, and the convenience of professional aquarium maintenance services. Whether you are setting up your very first tank, looking to add a rare specimen to your collection, or need ongoing professional care for a complex reef system, C-MACS Aquarium - CLT is equipped to assist. Their commitment to customer education, combined with a comprehensive range of products and services, makes them the go-to destination for fostering thriving aquatic environments right here in the Charlotte community. Choosing C-MACS Aquarium - CLT means supporting a local business that genuinely cares about your aquatic hobby and the well-being of your underwater companions.

C-MACS Aquarium - CLT Photos

C-MACS Aquarium - CLT Location

C-MACS Aquarium - CLT

North Carolina Mecklenburg County Charlotte Brown Road South Tryon Street

11112 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28273, USA

C-MACS Aquarium - CLT Reviews

**Initial Experience Was Positive, But Fish Died & Testing Raised Concerns**I visited this store for the first time to buy guppies for my freshwater tank. The staff was helpful and answered all my questions, which I appreciated. Unfortunately, within 24 hours of bringing the fish home, 2 of the 3 guppies died despite careful acclimation. My existing fish remain healthy, and my tank water tested negative for ammonia both *before* and *after* the incident (see photo).When I returned with the deceased fish and a water sample as instructed, the store claimed to detect ammonia in my sample—a result I couldn’t replicate at home with multiple tests. I’m deeply concerned about this discrepancy, especially since:1. My established fish are thriving,2. My test kit consistently shows 0 ppm ammonia,3. The store performed their test out of view.While I can’t definitively say why the guppies died (stress, store water conditions, or transport shock are possible), the conflicting test results undermine my trust. Proceed with caution and consider verifying their water tests independently.
Jun 30, 2025 · Sagar Voonna
LOVE this store! The staff is extremely friendly and knowledgeable. Any questions I’ve ever had they’ve been able to answer for me in depth. I love the quality of both the store and all of the fish in it. You can tell that everything is genuinely being taken care of. I’ve purchased one Betta, and two Axolotl’s and they’ve all done so well since Ive brought them home. It’s extremely refreshing to go into a pet store and be able to look at all of the fish in it without feeling bad for them. I can’t recommend this place enough! 🤌🏽
Sep 09, 2024 · lacie beck
I thought long and hard about making this review because I know low stars aren’t fun, but I do wanna share my experience. Upon entering the staff were so helpful and friendly! Did not have to wait too long on a busy Saturday to get the fish we wanted. (Which is why you get 2 stars) I purchased 4 female guppies from c-Mac’s who seemed to look in good health, took them home and within 2-3 days my first two died.. within the first week my third died.. my one and only is currently still kicking and I have been treating her (as I was with the others) for any sickness they may have brought. Am I a little upset about spending money and losing it in a span of a week? Sure. But the main reason for this review is for all those beginner fish keepers, QUARANTINE your new fish!! I can not imagine if this sickness had spread through my established tanks..you never know the health of new fish until it is too late, unfortunately it was too late for my 3 little friends, but luckily they were in a quarantined tank. I just suggest maybe instead of claiming you have the happiest and healthiest fish in the region, explain that some fish may be carrying a fungus/parasite etc and to always quarantine.Edit: if you’d like more people to reach out about problems like this, then maybe rephrasing your “24 hour”, and “No Returns” policy will help others feel more willing. As for me if I see a 24 hour policy, I know 48 hours is past your policy therefore I will not be calling. So yes unfortunately you do have to hear about it in a review because I’m simply following your policy.
Mar 11, 2025 · Breonna Moss
Could I possibly rate c-macs higher? Yes - although googled maximum is limiting me to five stars. I'd go higher.The staff here is friendly, knowledgeable, and so unbelievably willing to help, no matter how busy the store.Every fish, crab, or shrimp has come home in the best condition a store could sell us, they won't put different species together to travel, the only place I know to do that.With the service, quality, and competitive pricing, there's no better store for your aquatic needs.
Apr 02, 2025 · Rae Turner
Nice experience. Varied species. The young man who helped us was knowledgeable and pleasant. He tested a sample of our small tank's water and made helpful recommendations. Very accommodating when we needed a return.
May 27, 2025 · Karen Jones