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.