Our Story · Est. 1975
About.
Erie's saltwater aquarium store since 1975 — family-run by Steve and Colleen Firman since 1999. Still at the same address, still focused on the long game.
50+
Years
1975
Est.
388
Reviews
4.8
Stars
The shop
A livestock-first
saltwater store.
Sea Cave has been in the saltwater business since 1975. When Steve and Colleen Firman took over in 1999, the goal was simple: build the kind of aquarium store they wished existed in Erie. One that prioritized livestock quality, honest advice, and long-term success for every customer.
Fifty years on, Sea Cave has become the region's most respected source for saltwater fish, captive-bred coral, invertebrates, and freshwater species — alongside a full line of reef equipment for builds of every size.
Our captive-bred coral farming program produces hardier, more colorful frags that are already acclimated to aquarium conditions — better survival rates than wild-caught, and better for the ocean.
Journey
Fifty years,
one obsession.
- 1975
Founded
Sea Cave opens in Erie — in the saltwater business from the very beginning, when most shops wouldn't touch it.
- 1999
The Firmans take over
Steve and Colleen Firman buy the store, then close it for a four-month, top-to-bottom renovation.
- 2000
Servicing & coral propagation
Reopened as one of the region's most modern fish stores — with a new tank servicing department and an on-site captive-bred coral program.
- Today
Fifty years in
Still family-run. Still on East 14th Street. 4.8 stars across 388 reviews — earned the slow way.
Why Sea Cave
A shop measured in decades, not quarters.
01
Saltwater expertise
Decades of hands-on experience with marine fish, coral, and reef systems. We help you succeed — not just stock your tank.
02
Captive-bred coral
Our propagation facility produces frags that are hardier, more sustainable, and already acclimated to aquarium conditions.
03
Earned trust
4.8 stars from 388 Google reviews. Customers drive in from across the region because they trust our livestock and our advice.
Visit
660 East 14th Street,
Erie, PA.
Hours
Mon–Fri · 12–6 pm
Saturday · 11 am – 4 pm
Sunday · Closed