YOUR TRUSTED AQUARIUM EXPERTS SINCE 1969
Who We Are
Elmer’s Aquarium was founded by Elmer Knabe and his wife Catharine in 1969. Over the years the store expanded several times into four adjacent store-rooms and basement, which is now the warehouse for Elmer’s Aquarium, where we store large tanks and stands.
Elmer’s Aquarium is still family owned and operated. While Elmer Knabe passed away in 1995, his son Gary, and his daughter Karen, who have been involved in the business since its beginnings, still operate the store to this very day!
We have always specialized in offering a large selection of healthy tropical fish. Today we have one of the longest established businesses in the Monroeville area. Our years of expertise, unparalleled selection, and exceptional customer service have made us the trusted “local fish store” of many throughout the greater Pittsburgh area.
Meet the owners:
Gary Knabe: Elmer’s son, Gary, helped his parents open the store in 1969. He has been the company president for the past 40 years.
Karen Lukacsena: Elmer’s daughter, Karen, is the company vice-president. She has been with the company since 1969, working part time while she attended college and worked as a teacher. She started her full time career at Elmer’s Aquarium in 1977!
Management Team:
- Karen Lukacsena On staff since 1977
- Steve Zarod On staff since 1995
- Kelly Sypolt On staff since 2008
- Doug Trumpower On staff since 2020
- Jesse Duwall On staff since 2020
The Elmer's Difference
Is an Elmer’s visit worth your time? See why so many hobbyists from near and far say “Yes!”
- Rewards Perks: Elmer’s reward members benefit by receiving various discounts on their purchases. Learn more
- Knowledgeable staff: our team is comprised of hobbyists eager to help you succeed
- Healthy animals: as fellow animal-lovers, we make the care of our animals a top priority
- Professional Services: delivery, installation & maintenance all available for your home or office tank. Learn more
- Large selection: we offer the greatest selection of tanks, lights and stands in Western Pennsylvania
- Competitive pricing: our warehouse basement allows us to offer large items at prices comparable or better than what you’ll find online. We also do price matching
- Quality Products: Our Master Kits, carefully selected packages for any aquarium size and type, are designed to help you succeed. Learn more
- Trustworthy: we have been part of the Monroeville community since 1969
