Our Promise

International Aquatics was built on a simple promise: what you see is exactly what you get. Every fish we sell is already eating, already vetted, and already set up to thrive. We are WYSIWYG—what you see is what you get—which means we show you the actual specimen you’re buying. Before we place a label on a box, we record and send a short video of that specific fish eating.

We do this because first bites say more than flowery descriptions ever could. A feeding fish travels better, settles faster, and gives you confidence that the animal you’ve chosen is truly ready for your system. We pair this transparency with fair pricing and a 15-day guarantee on quarantine livestock, except where a species is explicitly noted as sensitive. Many peers only cover arrival or a week; we intentionally go further, because healthy livestock and honest expectations keep people in the hobby for the long run.

Our Quarantine Process

Our quarantine process is stringent, consistent, and overseen by marine veterinarians who care deeply about both welfare and outcomes. Every fish begins its stay with a formalin bath to neutralize surface parasites, followed by transfer into copper-treated systems maintained at therapeutic levels for no fewer than 14 full days. Copper concentrations are monitored multiple times per day with calibrated testing equipment to ensure exact consistency.

During quarantine, each fish is fed a rotation of Selcon-soaked frozen foods to boost immune function, supplemented with Kanaplex and Metroplex treatments to address bacterial and internal parasites. We incorporate probiotic additives to promote gut health, nori sheets and natural algae offerings for grazing species, and enrichments like vitamin-infused mysis for long-term conditioning.

Our process doesn’t stop there. We schedule daily visual health assessments to log respiration rate, posture, color, and behavior, paired with video documentation of first feedings and recovery milestones. When indicated, we perform freshwater dips to confirm external parasite clearance and use UV sterilization across all quarantine systems for an added safeguard. Mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration are optimized with oversized skimmers, poly-filter pads, and ozone support to maximize water clarity and oxygenation.

At the close of the observation window, your reserved fish has not only completed therapeutic treatment but has also been seen feeding vigorously on video, confirmed free of visible parasites, and cleared by our internal veterinary protocols. Our quarantine program is designed to go well beyond industry norms, leaving nothing to chance and ensuring every specimen is truly prepared for long-term success in your system.

Our Sourcing

We maintain relationships with multiple suppliers so that we can clearly label specimens as “In Stock,” “In QT (with ETA),” “Out of QT (ships now),” or “Import to Order.” When a fish is common and has already cleared quarantine, we ship promptly. When a fish is rare or seasonal, we state upfront that sourcing may take three to ten business days before quarantine begins or concludes, and we keep you updated along the way.

Behind the scenes, we favor captive-bred fish whenever possible. We photograph each specimen against a neutral black background for clarity and consistency. We also package with research-driven materials and methods designed to minimize transit stress in all seasons.

Our Story

International Aquatics began in 2017, supplying a small circle of maintenance clients who wanted dependable, eating fish without the risk of fresh-import disease. Word spread, our processes matured, and by 2025 we expanded to shipping worldwide where regulations allow.

Through it all, we have kept our identity intact: meticulous quarantine, honest communication, and pricing that makes sense for real aquarists. We do not promise invincible animals; we promise preparation, proof, and partnership.

Transparency on Sensitive Species

Some species are inherently more delicate. Leopard and Tamarin Wrasses, along with certain deepwater fish, require additional care, specialized feeding, and longer observation. We clearly label such specimens as sensitive and apply a small quarantine surcharge to reflect the extra resources devoted to their well-being.

Customer Experience

We take full responsibility for the experience. Every order represents a living animal, and we treat it that way. We answer emails quickly, record the details that matter—first feed, first flare, first patrol through rockwork—and ensure every fish has video proof of eating before shipment. Our guarantee extends well beyond a tracking number changing to “delivered.”

We are also candid in our guidance. If a species is a poor fit for your tank, we will say so and recommend something sturdier, not because it is easier for us but because success begins with the right match. And when you are ready to plan a stocking list or troubleshoot compatibility, our on-site assistant AskNEMO is there to interpret your tank specifications, offer safe recommendations, and provide direct links to appropriate, ready fish.