As another school year begins, learning isn't limited to classrooms. Sometimes the most fascinating lessons happen right in our own neighborhood. For Edinburgh residents Derry and Chiaki Duncan, their home has become a living classroom where family, friends, and neighbors can discover the incredible beauty and diversity of life beneath the ocean's surface.

Derry and Chiaki have lived in Edinburgh for 15 years.  They have been active members of the community, participating in social events and serving on the homeowners’ association board.  

While you may have seen the Duncans out and about in the neighborhood, what you may not know is that they maintain a 275-gallon saltwater reef tank in their home. Their tank features multiple coral and invertebrate species, as well as over two dozen marine fish. It is a prominent feature in their basement, where the bar is located, for everyone’s viewing pleasure. Derry began the hobby when their son, Ryan, expressed an interest in fish-keeping at a young age. They started with a used 55-gallon tank, which, over the years, has evolved into the structure they have on display in their home today. 

To maintain their amazing saltwater reef tank in Suwanee, they love visiting Pure Reef in Alpharetta and Nemo’s Fish Store in Lawrenceville for supplies and new residents.

Derry’s most famous fish is a Unicorn Tang.  He is over 30 years old and lives a happy predator-free life in their peaceful tank. He has a varied diet of seaweed and meaty foods, mostly brine shrimp. His single horn has affectionately earned him his name, Horny!

When asked about what he enjoys about his unique hobby, Derry says, “The beauty of Marine fish with so many colors and the endless species of live coral make for a beautiful experience, and a great opportunity to educate our house guests about the world around us in all our world's oceans. Many of the fish and invertebrates have unique talents such as cleaning other fish or removing unwanted pests from the environment.” Derry says of his tank dwellers, “They love to eat. They will eat all the time. We once had a fish that would play with empty shells in the tank. Much like a dog chasing a ball.”

Derry says his favorite thing about owning and maintaining his saltwater reef tank is “seeing the joy of people who have never witnessed the beauty of God's creatures up close.” 

As students head back to school ready to discover something new, the Duncans remind us that curiosity and learning don't end with childhood. Whether you're eight or eighty, there's always something new to explore, especially when you're willing to look a little closer.