Volker Hanke knows his fish

North Kildonan

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This article was published 15/02/2023 (1250 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Volker Hanke’s had a passion for fish for more than a half-century. It followed him from Germany to Winnipeg. Now he wants to share his enjoyment with the community.

Hanke invites new and experienced hobbyists to Volkers Aquarium Supplies at 30 Taunus Dr. In North Kildonan, just off Gateway Road. He specializes in freshwater fish, plants and carbon dioxide systems.

It’s a family hobby, as Hanke’s grandfather and father also enjoyed keeping fish and aquariums When he was 13, Hanke got his first goldfish and he was hooked. That was 52 years ago.

Hanke left Germany for Canada in 2001. Among the belongings he brought were three aquariums. Once here, it didn’t take him long to spot an opportunity.

“I didn’t see many aquarium stores, so I said that when Canada would let me in I’d start one,” Hanke said.

He estimates he has 40 different types of fish and between 60 and 80 different species of plants in stock. There is also food, nutrients, gravel, filters, lighting and several types of gravel in stock. For more advanced hobbyists, Hanke can also help with CO2 use, lighting and more. There are plans to add shrimp in the coming months.

Underwater plants are Hanke’s particular interest, and they make a great addition to any aquarium.

“Not many people in town can beat me (in general), and in plants, nobody can,” Hanke said.

For those just starting to keep fish, Hanke recommends breeds such as guppies, platys, gouramis and rainbow fish. They’re colourful and kids love them.

If you have questions about any aspect of fish and aquariums, reach out to Hanke on his website – volkersaquarium.ca – or through Facebook. There are chat options available and he promises to reply as soon as he can.

The shop is open from noon to 7 p.m. seven days a week. You can also call him at 204-668-8719 for an appointment.

“I can talk all day about this,” Hanke said. “I know what I’m doing. My fish are healthy. In plants there’s nobody can beat me.”