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Hong Kong's Road of Plants
Southeast Asian aquarists have a strong interest in live planted tanks. Hobbyists are quite familiar with the contributions of Japanese aquarists to their growing popularity in the United States. Much closer to the islands of Japan, Hong Kong and mainland China have received the benefits of Japanese plant products and influences for many years. The result in Hong Kong is Tung Choi Street. Originally known as "Goldfish Street" this road is lined on both sides by about 60 aquarium shops! Today it is changing as stores are offering more plant products and live plants than they are goldfish. All the tanks were using the ADA Amano substrate system.
Tanks are laid out in the Japanese style of aquarist Takashi Amano and his products are found in most shops.
Glass plumbing components were common and almost always used on aquariums of various sizes.
This trip to Hong Kong took place in June, 2006. Although it was very hot and humid (winter months are more comfortable) there was a great variety of plants available in the many shops.
It is common to see aquarium shops extend out onto the sidewalk. The stores are usually long, narrow corridors allowing for little space inside to accommodate customers. Street side, products are lined up to attract potential buyers. Plants can be seen pre-bagged with the price written on the side.
The same goes for fish; a common practice!
Even the ever popular fish food blood worms are served up fresh in front of a store.
There is a wide selection of dry goods available with many USA and European products lining the shelves. As well as an abundance of fish species to choose from.
Some of the new products yet to arrive in the USA include a track-lighting system that according to the manufacturer will debut here in the States in 2008. Also quite popular are hybridized shrimp known as "Bee Shrimp." They are bred for color and pattern that is either bands of red and white across the body or black and white combinations.
Small tanks are a popular choice as most apartments on Hong Kong island are about 600 sq. ft. in size!
It seems that Hong Kong is always a crowded place but it is especially busy with weekend shoppers. Despite the heat and crowding it was a great experience and everyone I meet there was genuinely helpful and courteous. I would highly recommend a stop at Tung Choi Street to anyone. For aquarists, a full day is needed to see it all. Fortunately for spouses and traveling companions adjacent streets have souvenirs and curios to keep them occupied.
(c) 2006, AquaTouch |
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Copyright © 2008 AquaTouch
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