As of this week, Florida Keys marine fanatics could have a brand new aquarium retailer to assist fill, filter and enhance their fish tanks. The Underwater Gardener, 2816 N. Roosevelt Blvd. within the Abroad Market, will host a grand opening in Key West on Saturday, July 5. Shifting from its earlier Islamorada location, the aquarium retailer brings its mix of sustainable practices and cutting-edge know-how to the Decrease Keys. The shop is a one-stop store for every little thing from unique fish to vibrant corals and invertebrates, with consultants available for water testing, upkeep and a full number of aquarium tanks and provides.
“Bringing the Underwater Gardener to the Decrease Keys is a dream come true,” mentioned co-owner Jamie Edelman. “We acknowledged the pressing want for an area, complete aquarium retailer, and our mission extends past simply gross sales. It’s about empowering the group with information and actively contributing to the well-being of our beloved Keys reefs.”
The Underwater Gardener is dedicated to sustainability. A full 80% of its fish and coral stock is grown by in-house aquaculture, considerably decreasing environmental affect. The remaining 20% is sustainably wild-sourced, reflecting their perception that reef well being is paramount, greater than revenue. Additionally they fragment and propagate corals.
“We’re actually happy with the truth that we are actually licensed within the state of Florida for aquaculture,” mentioned co-owner Daniel Michael. “We take satisfaction in working sustainably as we all know how treasured our reefs are. We are able to even take individuals out on a personal constitution to assist gather native species like rock flower anemones or St. Thomas mushrooms. It’s a blast educating individuals and serving to them be taught concerning the completely different native species.”
The shop additionally embraces know-how. Refined pc programs, remotely managed by way of a smartphone app, permit for exact regulation and monitoring of tanks, making certain optimum situations. Clients can fill jugs on the retailer with in-house reverse osmosis deionized water or saltwater, and even go for a supply service for bigger portions. These provides are supplied quicker and cheaper than Amazon, with bulk ordering choices out there.
“There actually isn’t anywhere the place individuals within the Keys can shortly go to get what they want for his or her aquariums,” says Edelman. “They often must drive to Miami if there’s an emergency, so we’re glad we could be of service.”
The Underwater Gardener gives water testing and chemical evaluation. It additionally shares a number of frozen fish meals and gives “pet sitting” for holidays. In the event you’re dreaming of a particular authorized fish, they will supply it to your tank.
A core mission is to demystify saltwater aquariums and make them accessible to everybody, not simply intermediate or superior hobbyists. They’re comfortable to teach newcomers to the passion about beginning and sustaining saltwater tanks, figuring out fish species and understanding correct tank care. A particular lionfish tank within the retailer will educate the general public on the invasive species.
“We’re additionally excited to get the youngsters in right here,” mentioned Michael. “We’re wanting to get partnerships going with the varied teams in Key West like the faculties and the school. Come be a part of us on July 5 from 11:30 a.m. to six:30 p.m. for giveaways, meals, and naturally, plenty of fish.”
Extra info is at theunderwatergardener.com, by way of e-mail to jamie@theunderwatergardener.com or at 305-850-9949.