Lee Trotman is a marketing executive by day, marine life and animal fan at night. To fund this hobby, he has worked for several large companies such as R.J. Reynolds and Southern California Edison, along with numerous manufacturers of consumer products ranging from nutritional supplements to consumer electronics. Lee Trotmanâs interest in marine life started when he lived in New York City, and his visits to the legendary Jones Beach usually resulted in being stung by jellyfish. Despite this setback, Lee Trotman was intriqued by the wildlife found in the water, and this continued from the Atlantic ocean to the Pacific, when Lee Trotman moved to Japan.
In Japan, the Pacific Ocean was viewed more for sustenance than as a travel passageway, so Lee Trotman found himself surrounded by professional fishermen every weekend. Japanese culture dictates that fishing is not recreational, more of a necessity. Anything caught was not thrown back, and was usually the only meal of the day. As a result, things most Americans would not usually eat (until recently) were daily staples, such as octopus, blowfish, jellyfish, etc. It was here that Lee Trotman developed a fascination for marine life and reefs.
How did you become interested in reefs and marine life? I lived in Japan as a kid, so every weekend was spent on the water with professional fishermen.
How long have you had a reef tank? I have had a reef tank since 2004.
Do you prefer soft or hard coral? Why? Soft coral, since they only need enough calcium supplementation to produce and maintain their spiracles.
How big would you say is the perfect size of an aquarium? The perfect size is dictated by the room its in, and in my case, it is a room dedicated to marine life.
What advice would you give someone inexperienced who wants to try a reef tank for the first time? Be prepared to spend more money than you ever imagined đ
How many tanks do you have? Sizes? Two tanks, each 90 gallons.
What tools would you say are a must have for success in taking proper care of your aquarium? Quarantine tank and refractometer, plus a test kit (of course).
What has aquarium upkeep and tending to the life inside taught you about life? Life is all about constant maintenance, and if you donât do it regularly and adapt, then the consequences are literally life and death.
Who taught you what you know? How did they help you? Former girlfriend taught me because she was a veterinarian. Always watch the paid professionals đ
Would your aquarium be considered a hobby or a passion? Why? I think more a hobby than passion. Veterinarians are passionate about what they do, but I am more highly interested than passionate.