Text by David Marshall

Photographs by David Marshall

On the evening of Thursday 16th November the members and friends of Ryedale Aquarist Society enjoyed another excellent visit to Petland at New Earswick (eastern outskirts of York).

As is always the case Elaine and her family made us feel so welcome from the moment we stepped through the door so we begin our report by saying a big THANK YOU for both friendship and a lovely buffet supper

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We will make our report in 4 parts as follows: -

1. Tropical freshwater - This is the largest area of the aquatic section and surrounds the tropical marine sales tanks on three sides. As usual the variety of species for sale was 'stunning'. Corydoras ranging from tiny hastatus through to fully-grown imitator, cichlids from commonly seen Pelvicachromis pulcher through to rarely seen Sarathodon linnellii, strange looking freshwater Moray Eel to the beauty of the Blosson Snakehead, Blue Metallic Guppies so bright that they could easily glow in the dark and an Elongated Piranha with its strange body shape were all here today, along with many more, for our delight.

2. Tropical marine - Two large and several smaller tanks make-up this section. Seahorses are always prevalent and their body size and colours were a sight to behold. We were very fortunate to see a beautiful young Bamboo Shark. Someday I may get around to setting-up such a tank with Yellow Tang topping my 'wanted list'.

3. Coldwater - As you will see from the accompanying photographs the quality of the Chinese bred Goldfish varieties and Blue Orfe was incredible. Much of this is down to the Petland policy of quality over quantity.

4. Accessories - Excellent selection of aquatic dry goods from several leading manufacturers. Area stockists of 'Tropical World' and 'Marine World' magazines.

For our report we have concentrated on the aquatic side of Petland here also you will find a vast array of products for pets with feathers and fur as well as some cute creatures themselves.