A VISIT TO THE REEF RANCH
Text by David Marshall,
Ryedale Aquarist Society
Photographs by Sue & Arthur Kenworthy
Towards
the end of January, 2007 my varied work for 'Tropical World' magazine took me
to the Reef Ranch, representing Editor Simon Wolstencroft, aquatic retail outlet
in order to view feeding trials of the New Era Marine Flake.
As our 'good
friends' Sue & Arthur Kenworthy were keen to visit the outlet they changed
their Sunday morning plans to come along, cameras in hand, and join Sue and I
for a look around and, as always, their company was most welcome.
As we
walked through the shop door we found ourselves viewing several shallow coral
displays and 94 small tropical marine fish stock tanks (half of which are to be
converted to hold tropical freshwater species in the near future) that were brimming
with a spectacular selection of quality species that painted a living picture
before our eyes. Lionfish, Clownfish, Marine Betta, Sweetlips, various marine
Angels and Yellow Tang were all here.
Chris, the proprietor, and his assistant
Scott made us very welcome, with refreshing hot drinks all around, before showing
us the various filter systems which really make this outlet 'tick' and then going
on to explain the various ways in which the marine creatures we were viewing had
to be fed. The knowledge and enthusiasm of both gentlemen was very much in evidence.
On
the products side everything needed to maintain a healthy tropical marine system
was here.
Our THANKS to Chris and Scott for making us so welcome. Whether
or not marines are 'your thing' you will find a visit to Reef Ranch very enjoyable,
and pleasant, and the outlet is located at Boggart Hill Drive, Seacroft on the
eastern outskirts of Leeds, West Yorkshire. Further details can be obtained with
a phone call to 0113 273 6789 or from the official website at www.reefranch.co.uk.