Nook Reef is the Vintage Store of Native Fish Shops | Reef Builders
It’s no secret that the native fish retailer has struggled on this digital age. Nonetheless, the Nook Reef in St. Louis is adapting and EXPANDING their footprint. Steve Babcock has owned and operated The Nook Reef for about 12 years and is aware of a factor or two about adapting. In 2018, the unique retailer location burned to the bottom in a fireplace. Fortunately, Steve and his crew have been in a position to get the livestock out of that constructing and into a brand new constructing that has now grow to be residence.
I lovingly check with Nook Reef because the “vintage store” of native fish shops. Not as a result of all the things is classic or outdated, however since you really by no means know what you’re going to search out. Steve buys a good quantity of tank breakdowns within the St. Louis space, so there may be all the time a brand new gem to be found.
Whenever you enter the shop, you’re greeted by an enormous show tank containing the shop’s mascot – a Bluespine Unicornfish (Naso unicornus), extra generally often known as a Unicorn Tang within the pastime. Steve describes him as a “curmudgeon”, and I couldn’t agree extra. Nonetheless, there’s something endearing about his curious character. Another star of the show is an Interruptus Angelfish (Centropyge interruptus). In case you’re fancy, otherwise you’ve simply received the lottery, you might afford the $3,500 price ticket. The orange and deep pink coloration will take your breath away.
The Nook Reef is positioned in a strip mall of vacated storefronts, a well-known scene these days. Steve advised me he’s gone forwards and backwards on whether or not or to not develop into the adjoining area, however after months of contemplation, he determined to drag the set off. Selfishly, I like that one in all my native fish shops is increasing. I can’t wait to see what he has in retailer!
Go on a brief tour of The Nook Reef in our newest video under! We’ll be sure you replace you on Steve’s progress over the approaching months!
