Black Pearl Aquatics

1709 W Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67213, USA

Address:	1709 W Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67213, USA
Phone:	+1 316-371-2736
Site:	blackpearlaquatics.net
Rating:	3.6
Working:	Closed Closed Closed 12–7PM 12–7PM 12–7PM 12–7PM

Location

Photos 1

Reviews 22

Josh S

A little over 3 months ago I decided to get started with a reef tank for the first time so after a little looking around I found Black Pearl Aquatics online. Their website was by far the most impressive in the area with a large selection and what I hoped would be a knowledgeable staff. When I arrived at the store I couldnt believe my eyes, I actually double checked online to make sure I was at the right address. A large number of their tanks had unbelievable amounts of algae and looked to be poorly maintained, the store smelled terrible and was disorganized, and Im pretty sure that there was black mold growing on the ceilings.. I decided to talk to the owner and try to give him a shot at my business despite the fact that his shop was largely unimpressive. I told him I wanted a reef tank and rather than help me he was rude and told me that instead of starting a reef tank I should just take a handful of paychecks and burn them. He didnt attempt to help me or answer my questions about what to buy all he did was try to discourage me from getting into the hobby. I actually had the money in hand and was there to buy everything to get started but instead I ended up going to another shop that is close by and purchased everything from them. Its unfortunate that his attitude lost him close to $3000 worth of purchases (so far), but the worst part is that I think his attitude is one of the best things at his store. There are other places in town with less impressive websites but much nicer stores and knowledgeable friendly help!

Brandy W.

Terrible experience at this shop! My husband and I went in to get a little info on what it would take to get a saltwater aquarium up and this guy was an ass! When we told him what we were wanting to do his response was "Thats what everyone says!" and walked into the back. I dont care if you get 10 people a day asking that question you just lost our business! Not only was the customer service bad his shop was DISGUSTING. I would be nervous purchasing anything from him and if you do I hope you have a quarantine tank! In response to the owner, I was not judgmental entering your shop. Was it not you who became judgmental when I politely asked you about starting a saltwater tank? We were not rude to you and valued your opinion based on the positive reviews we read about your shop. Yes, after your belittling response and "wonderful" customer service I noticed the not so positive features. Also, every other business we went to that day was very polite and eager to help and I just dont understand why you turned your back and walked away. The events in this review are 100% true but I could have wrote a more tasteful review and for that I am sorry.

Leslie Renfro

At first when I started to go to Black Pearl Aquatics the place needed a lot of improvement and needed more attention and love. I feel that the place has improved, though, Gerard can seem a bit standoffish at first but he is very passionate about his business. The overall store experience has improved in the last few months, and now that I work there myself I feel it will only get better. I love the costumers that I meet and I love my co-workers. I have learned a lot by working here and am happy with working at a place where I feel I am important.

Kyle Morton

I really like the concept of this store and they have some unique plants, fish, shrimp etc. The only issue I have is I recently bought some plants from them; when I got home I realized the Java moss I bought was covered in Black Beard Algae. I am now currently fighting it from taking over my tank. Not saying I wont ever shop here again since they are the only place in town that has that sort of assortment when it comes to plants etc. But I will definitely be more cautious and inspect any plants for BBA that I get from here going forward.

CRYSTAL R

The owner is nice, knowledgeable and skilled. However if this business ran on being on time to scheduled aquarium cleanings and communicating his tardiness it would crash and burn. Since working with the company that uses Black Pearl Aquatics services for our aquarium every 6- 8 weeks, Gerrard has been tardy by hours, sometimes doesnt even show up 90% of the time. It truly is unfortunate and we will be looking for another company to service our aquarium if it continues.

Cata Wingfield

I called to see what species of sea anemones they carry, and the first thing the guy said was "have you googled it." Than, he listed "carpet enemy," "pizza enemy" and "sea bear anemone." Cute, but I was looking for information. Definitely going somewhere else with my business.

Derek Sparks

Hours on door said open but they were not. The phone number I called for the business said he doesnt check vm but did accept text. Kind of unprofessional in my opinion. Also the store is in need of some major cleaning especially the Windows.

c davis

Highly recommend. Healthiest fish in Wichita and surrounding area. There is nothing worse than getting your fish home and having to treat it. These fish are healthy and vibrant! Great selection. Owner is very helpful answering questions.

Tom Brown

I am new to fish and went in for a starter tank. Gerard knows his aquatics and was very helpful without pushing a sale. My kids love the aquarium and love to visit the store and look at all the fish. Weve gone back many times.

Holly Armstrong

Owner is very knowledgeable and extremely helpful! The shop is really neat and located right in Delano. He helped me get a great starter fish take for my daughter and answered all my questions. Prices are very reasonable!

Nathan Schweizer

Not a great selection of fish, but the owner was super nice and very helpful. I would definitely come back for things I need in the future. I want to go back and get more live plants, very good selection of live plants.

scott shelinbarger

Went to BPA and found lots of beautiful fish and corals to choose from. The guy who works there is super cool, easy to talk to and very honest. I highly recommend stooping by for just about anything you could need.

Rielly Bannon

The best fish store in the Wichita area when it comes to freshwater planted aquariums and had an awesome african ciclid selection. Staff answer all my questions and are very knowlegeble.

Ryan Dean

At Black Pearl Aquatics, I found that the owner was very friendly. He was very knowledgeable and very nice to talk to. He has a great variety of fish! I definitely recommend this shop!

Brad Weber

Great experience. Owner was very helpful and didnt mind answering questions. He gave me a really great deal as well. I will definitely return for more!

Kendall Watson

Great small shop, good selection of live plants! check him out, hes a water chemistry genius.

Koby Elliott

Needs a little cosmetic work to the place but still a nice store and very friendly owner

Travis Seang

Pushy seller, takes advantage of beginning aquarium hobbyist with outrageous prices.

Kevin stoneburner

Nice selection of truly aquatic plants and knowledgeable and friendly owner

chels beach

Closed on Sunday by 5:30 when advertise 7pm. What a waste of my time!

Shane Fox

Very knowledgeable great plants great fish great customer service