As of this week, Florida Keys marine enthusiasts will have a new aquarium store to help fill, filter and improve their fish tanks. The Underwater Gardener, 2816 N. Roosevelt Blvd. in the Overseas Market, will host a grand opening in Key West on Saturday, July 5. Moving from its previous Islamorada location, the aquarium store brings its blend of sustainable practices and cutting-edge technology to the Lower Keys. The store is a one-stop shop for everything from exotic fish to vibrant corals and invertebrates, with experts on hand for water testing, maintenance and a full selection of aquarium tanks and supplies.
“Bringing the Underwater Gardener to the Lower Keys is a dream come true,” said co-owner Jamie Edelman. “We recognized the urgent need for a local, comprehensive aquarium store, and our mission extends beyond just sales. It’s about empowering the community with knowledge and actively contributing to the well-being of our beloved Keys reefs.”
The Underwater Gardener is committed to sustainability. A full 80% of its fish and coral inventory is grown through in-house aquaculture, significantly reducing environmental impact. The remaining 20% is sustainably wild-sourced, reflecting their belief that reef health is paramount, more than profit. They also fragment and propagate corals.
“We are really proud of the fact that we are now certified in the state of Florida for aquaculture,” said co-owner Daniel Michael. “We take pride in operating sustainably as we know how precious our reefs are. We can even take people out on a private charter to help collect local species like rock flower anemones or St. Thomas mushrooms. It’s a blast educating people and helping them learn about the different local species.”
The store also embraces technology. Sophisticated computer systems, remotely controlled via a smartphone app, allow for precise regulation and monitoring of tanks, ensuring optimal conditions. Customers can fill jugs at the store with in-house reverse osmosis deionized water or saltwater, or even opt for a delivery service for larger quantities. These supplies are offered faster and cheaper than Amazon, with bulk ordering options available.
“There really isn’t any place where people in the Keys can quickly go to get what they need for their aquariums,” says Edelman. “They usually have to drive to Miami if there is an emergency, so we are glad we can be of service.”
The Underwater Gardener offers water testing and chemical analysis. It also stocks a selection of frozen fish foods and provides “pet sitting” for vacations. If you’re dreaming of a specific legal fish, they can source it for your tank.
A core mission is to demystify saltwater aquariums and make them accessible to everyone, not just intermediate or advanced hobbyists. They’re happy to educate newcomers to the hobby about starting and maintaining saltwater tanks, identifying fish species and understanding proper tank care. A special lionfish tank in the store will educate the public on the invasive species.
“We’re also excited to get the kids in here,” said Michael. “We are eager to get partnerships going with the various groups in Key West like the schools and the college. Come join us on July 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. for giveaways, food, and of course, lots of fish.”
More information is at theunderwatergardener.com, via email to jamie@theunderwatergardener.com or at 305-850-9949.
