Tucked away in the Creekside Center on St. James Avenue in Goose Creek, you'll find live, colorful coral. Extreme Picasso There are also countless fish with colorful names, including clownfish, hawk fish, rock blennies, and cupang damsels.
Although the names of fish are unfamiliar to many people, they are very familiar to those who are passionate about keeping fish at home. You can find them and more at Ocean Realms.
“It's very, very soothing,” said owner Lisa Trill. Many people have noticed that if they put an aquarium and a TV in the living room, they do not pay attention to the TV at all. Observing fish is fun, regardless of their species, behavior, or interactions. Each fish has its own personality. ”
She said she has had fish tanks since she was 8 years old and now has hundreds of all types. She offers both fresh and saltwater varieties, catering to both beginners and experienced collectors.
Trill started business three and a half years ago and held its grand opening on May 4 to remind residents that they don't have to leave Goose Creek to find rare fish and coral. Trill, who has a degree in environmental chemistry and geology, started her business after a few things were in place.
“It's something I've always been interested in and just had a passion for,” she said. “I worked a 9-to-5 job in a lab for over 20 years. I got injured on the job and knew I wouldn't be hired as a staff member. I realized there were very few stores, so I put everything I had into it.”
This business is risky because of the high overhead, upkeep, and maintenance required to farm healthy fish. The same goes for fish.
At Trill's store, even creatures the size of a thumb can cost more than $200. But enthusiasm for fish is what draws people to it. The tank is as fascinating as staring into a campfire.
“There are also medical benefits,” Trill said. “It's been shown to reduce stress and lower blood pressure. It definitely seems to be growing. We opened in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, which is a great time to start a business.” But it was kind of nice because a lot of people were home.”
If you're thinking about starting an underwater experience at home, Trill says freshwater fish such as tetras and bettas are good starting fish, and for saltwater aquariums, clownfish, or “Finding Nemo,” are good choices. But it requires commitment. Believe it or not, clownfish can live up to 15 years, and sometimes longer, Trill added.
“My heart is with saltwater fish and coral,” she said. “I love coral.”
