Books

This third, revised, edition of the definitive study of Lake Malawi cichlids discusses and illustrates more species than any previous publication. Basing his study on more than 900 hours of underwater observations all over the lake, the author characterizes the species by their habitat preference, distribution, and coloration. More than 1400 excellent photographs ? many never published before ?illustrate the cichlid fauna of the entire lake. Almost all of these photographs were taken in the lake and show the fishes in their natural habitat.

No lake in the world contains such a diversified and distinct community of cichlid fishes as Lake Malawi. The total number of cichlid species in the lake is now estimated at about 1000, which are about 200 more than all the freshwater fish species of the North American Continent combined! And there is every indication that still more remains to be discovered. This fourth, completely revised edition of the definitive study of Lake Malawi cichlids discusses and illustrates more species (843 species of which 822 are shown in photos) than any previous publication. Basing his study on more than 1500 hours of underwater observations all over the lake (36 expeditions), the author characterizes the species by their habitat preference, distribution, and coloration. More than 1750 excellent photographs many never published before illustrate the cichlid fauna of the entire lake. Almost all of these photographs were taken in the lake and show the fishes in their natural habitat.

Over the years Malawi cichlids, which are among the most colorful freshwater fishes known, have become very popular among aquarists, as they are easy to maintain and breed in captivity. And in recent years an ever-increasing number of aquarists, interested in the natural environment of their fishes, have been inspired to visit Malawi and observe the cichlids in the lake itself. Only those who have done so can truly understand the exhilaration and feeling of fulfillment this entails, but this book offers everyone a unique opportunity to share a little of that enjoyment.

There are few pieces of furniture that can compete in beauty with an aquarium. A beautiful aquarium decorated with plats and cardinal tetras, an aquarium with rocks and fancy-colored Malawi cichlids, an aquarium with magnificent discus and shy catfish - well, there is something for every taste. An aquarium is not only a piece of furniture but also a piece of nature moved into the living room. Starting up an aquarium means, among other things, assuming also a responsibility of providing the fish with the right conditions so that they get on well. This Back to Nature Aquarium guide which contains more than 600 color photos provides all necessary advises (size aquarium, decoration, plants, technology, water chemistry, food, breeding, diseases, to buy the fish etc.) for anyone that is going to start an aquarium.

In the last few years so-called “nano aquaria” have became very popular. The main reason for this is probably that they are small and will fit almost anywhere. Many beautifully-designed and functional nanos have been produced and numerous colourful freshwater shrimps and small fishes have been introduced into the aquarium hobby as well. This book gives many examples of beautiful freshwater nano aquaria and also provides useful and adequate information on how to set up and maintain a nano. It also covers the fishes, shrimps, crayfishes, crabs, snails, and plants that can be kept in such a small aquarium. This book contains approximately 490 excellent colour photos (by 41 photographers from nine countries) and species descriptions with information on and photos of more than 75 crustaceans (shrimps, crayfishes, crabs) and snails, 180 fishes, and 60 plants that are suitable for a nano aquarium.

Discuses are by far the most elegant and regal of all ornamental fishes. At one time, they were extremely expensive and the varieties were limited. Today, as a result of hard work by hobbyists and professional breeders alike, they are becoming abundant and affordable. With names like Blue Diamond, Red Diamond, Marlboro Red, and Golden Sunrise, discus have color varieties sure to please any hobbyist. Be it in a decorated community aquarium or in a tank all alone, discus will add vibrancy and fascination to your hobby.

Catfishes are the most popular group of ornamental fishes available today - ask any aquarist, retailer, wholesaler, importer, and exporter. Almost every aquarium community has its resident species. In nature catfishes thrive in torrential waterfalls, large lakes, thundering rivers, and quiet streams. They are mostly nocturnal, secretive, mysterious animals, and this factor certainly makes them attractive to hobbyists. Another factor behind their success is the wonderful multitude of sizes, shapes, and forms found throughout the world. In captivity most catfishes are adaptable to water conditions and they usually prove extremely resilient against diseases.

This up-to-date guide provides an overview to species currently available and includes basic information on how to maintain them in aquarium.

This book celebrates the beauty of discus. For enthusiasts, it provides pinpoint advice on what to look for in selecting show quality discus and how they are judged in competitions. For breeders, it offers suggestions on how to improve existing strains and pursue new ones. With over 270 color pictures, it is also a photo journal of Trophy Discus. 128 pages, hardcover.