Underwater Depot Introduce
For dedicated aquatic enthusiasts and those looking to dive into the captivating world of aquariums in California, Underwater Depot in Sherman Oaks offers a specialized and often highly recommended experience. Unlike general pet stores, this establishment focuses exclusively on the needs of freshwater and saltwater aquariums, providing a comprehensive range of fish, live plants, and all the necessary equipment. Underwater Depot prides itself on its knowledgeable staff and a genuine commitment to the welfare of the animals they sell, often prioritizing the long-term health of your aquatic ecosystem over immediate sales. This makes it a significant resource for hobbyists in the greater Los Angeles area, from beginners setting up their first tank to experienced aquarists seeking rare species or expert advice.
Underwater Depot is conveniently located at 13708 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423, USA. Ventura Boulevard is a major, bustling artery running through the heart of the San Fernando Valley, making the store highly accessible for residents across Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Encino, and surrounding communities. Its prime location on such a well-known thoroughfare means it's easy to find, whether you're coming from nearby neighborhoods or a bit further afield within Los Angeles County. While Ventura Boulevard can be busy, the commercial nature of the area typically provides ample parking, enhancing the convenience for customers. This strategic placement ensures that Underwater Depot serves as a central and specialized hub for aquatic supplies and expertise, making it a go-to destination for aquarium hobbyists throughout Southern California who value both quality products and knowledgeable support.
Services Offered:
- Sales of Freshwater and Saltwater Fish: Underwater Depot offers a diverse selection of both freshwater and saltwater fish, catering to a wide range of aquarium setups and experience levels.
- Live Aquatic Plants and Corals: For planted tanks and reef aquariums, the store provides a variety of healthy live plants and corals to enhance the aquatic environment.
- Comprehensive Aquarium Supplies: They stock essential equipment including tanks, filters, lighting systems, heaters, substrates, decorations, and water testing kits to meet all aquarium needs.
- Aquarium Service & Maintenance Plans: Underwater Depot offers customized maintenance plans, ranging from weekly to monthly visits, which include water changes, algae removal, filter servicing, water analysis, and observation of fish health. This service is crucial for maintaining a healthy and thriving aquatic environment.
- Custom Aquarium Design & Installation: For those dreaming of a unique aquatic display, the team provides expertise in designing and installing custom freshwater, saltwater, and reef aquariums for both homes and businesses.
- Expert Advice and Consultation: The staff are highly knowledgeable and provide valuable insights on tank cycling, local water quality, fish compatibility, and general aquarium husbandry, often going above and beyond to ensure customer success. They have been noted for advising customers to wait for tank cycling rather than rushing sales.
- Product Selection Guidance: They assist customers in choosing the right products, sometimes even "downsells" to less expensive options if they believe it's genuinely better for the animal or tank, showcasing a commitment to welfare over profit.
- Troubleshooting and Problem Solving: Customers can receive assistance with issues like sick fish, algae problems, or equipment malfunctions, benefiting from the staff's experience.
Features / Highlights:
- Highly Knowledgeable and Professional Staff: A consistent highlight from positive reviews is the staff's extensive knowledge of aquatic life and aquarium keeping. They are praised for being professional and providing genuine, unbiased advice.
- Commitment to Animal Welfare: The business is noted for prioritizing the well-being of the animals, even recommending against immediate purchases if the tank is not ready, demonstrating ethical practices.
- Extensive Selection of Aquatic Life: Customers often highlight the variety of freshwater and saltwater fish, as well as live plants and corals, making it a robust source for new additions to tanks.
- Personalized Customer Service: The staff's willingness to engage in detailed conversations, offer insights into local water quality, and provide tailored advice distinguishes their customer service from larger chain stores.
- One-Stop Shop for Aquarists: From live animals and plants to comprehensive supplies and professional maintenance services, Underwater Depot aims to be a complete resource for all aquarium hobbyists.
- Focus on Education: The staff's willingness to share their expertise helps educate customers, empowering them to maintain healthier and more sustainable aquatic environments.
Contact Information:
Address: 13708 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423, USA
Phone: (818) 789-7323
Mobile Phone: +1 818-789-7323
For California residents, particularly those in the Sherman Oaks area and across the vast Los Angeles region, Underwater Depot stands as a critical and highly valuable resource for all things aquatic. Its specialized focus on freshwater and saltwater aquariums ensures a depth of product knowledge and expert advice that is often unparalleled by more general pet stores. The commitment to animal welfare, evidenced by their willingness to "downsell" or advise delaying purchases for the benefit of the animals, speaks volumes about their integrity. While some isolated negative feedback exists, the majority of positive reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable, professional staff who prioritize the health and comfort of the aquatic life and the success of their customers. For anyone looking to start a new aquarium, maintain an existing one, or simply seek reliable advice and quality supplies, Underwater Depot in Sherman Oaks is a suitable and highly recommended local business that truly understands and supports the aquatic hobbyist community.
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Underwater Depot Location
Underwater Depot
13708 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423, USA
Underwater Depot Reviews
They are very knowledgeable, professional, and do not try to upsell too often. In fact, the clerk tried to downsell me on shrimp food saying that the shrimp can survive just fine on the algae in the tank.I wound up going with the less expensive shrimp food in case the shrimp ate up all the algae.They gave insight to observations regarding local water quality as well.They were very blunt on the phone that I should wait an extra week to make sure the tank was cycled instead of trying to sell me the shrimp asap. Their actions make me believe that they really do have the animals’ welfare and comfort in mind. I don’t mind paying a little more and buying from great local suppliers like Underwater Depot!
Feb 23, 2025 · Jessica TommasselloI noticed the roots on the live plants I purchased looked disintegrated as soon as I brought them home and took them out of the casing. I immediately called and was told "it is normal, any issues call us back".Within 9 days they all died, water turned black, they were clearly diseased.I called them a dozen times over a 3 week period - was promised a 50% refund. The owner dodged my calls for the 3 weeks, refused to call me back, and of course I never received the 50% refund.He was willing to be a coward over $35.I should have spoken to my buddy beforehand, he is an avid aquarium hobbyist and he told me he avoids Underwater Depot as he once received a shellfish with shell rot.He directed me to Mark's Tropical Fish - Much cleaner, much more honest, and best of all, their living merchandise thrives longer than 10 days! It's been 5 months, and my tank is flourishing.Unless you like playing doctor to sick and diseased plants and animals, I recommend staying clear of this place.
Jun 08, 2025 · Emeris PendragonI went here for the first time with my kids and it was absolutely amazing. The variety of different types of tanks (ex.- fresh water, salt water, & ocean like tanks) and fish they have (which is too many to name) is amazing to look at. Some of the fish my kids & I loved were the puffer fish, elephant horn fish, crawfish, baby sharks, starfish and etc... The staff they have there are friendly, professional, & knowledgeable by knowing they talk with experience.
Jun 12, 2023 · Joshua SawickiAmazing service and amazing selection of fish. Everyone is so knowledgeable and kind. They really want the best for the fish… AND you! They are realistic in what you can and shouldn’t do, and they were immense help in setting up my fish tank. Oh! And when my filter didn’t work. They gave me a new one completely free! My fish are thriving and I’m excited to get more! Come here!
Feb 10, 2022 · Sydney GThis is the go to spot for all your fresh and saltwater fish care needs. These guys are experts and always willing to take their time to help you solve a problem or explain how something works. Their products are always excellent and the fish and plants I’ve purchased from them are always healthy! I’m very happy to shop locally with this small business rather than buying from the big box stores.
Nov 25, 2024 · Ashleigh Underwood
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