Earning a name for itself in south Montgomery County thanks to its saltwater aquarium products, Global Leader Aquatics removed freshwater products altogether to expand its saltwater stock in early January.

"We're finding more of a demand for saltwater than expected," owner James Anson said. "I think this store is going to be a hub for saltwater enthusiasts."

Global Leader Aquatics opened in March 2006 in Atascocita, but moved to Oak Ridge North in July, Anson said. The move allowed him to more than double the business' water volume and cater to customers from the area who were driving all the way to Atascocita for his products.

"The business has been growing," Anson said. "We're known for our saltwater stock, and people are flocking here."

Saltwater fish such as lionfish and firefish have been popular sellers, Anson said, but the shop has gained recognition for its vast saltwater coral inventory. He said most customers own small- to medium-sized aquariums and prefer buying the shop's smaller coral, which grow over time.

Anson said Global Leader Aquatics will soon add three large troughs with saltwater coral.

Anson said he would like to someday separate his dry goods from the live stock, but he thinks it is unlikely the business will add a second location in the near future.

"Managing a singular location, as busy as it is now, presents a challenge within itself," he said.