Aquatics retailers who supply live aquatic animals must have a Pet Shop Licence and comply with considerable amounts of legislation relating to animal welfare and staff training.

As well as trading from traditional retail premises, many aquatics retailers also trade online and supply items by mail order. Aquatics retailers who supply fish and other live aquatic animals often trade from light industrial premises with sufficient space to hold a large number of tanks.

Some aquatics retailers import live fish and other live aquatic animals directly. The import of live animals, including fish and other aquatic animals, is strictly regulated in order to protect animal health and prevent the spread of disease. Aquatics retailers who import live aquatic animals must comply with legislation relating to authorisation as an aquaculture production business, registration of premises, animal health and import documentation.

This profile provides information about starting up and trading as an aquatics retailer. It describes the skills required, the training available, the current market trends and the key trading issues. It also explains the legislation that must be complied with and provides sources of further information and support.