Book Description

Peacock Bass: Diversity, Ecology, and Conservation is a unique scientific reference that describes not only the diversity and natural history of the various peacock bass species (fish in the genus Cichla) but also their geographic distributions, evolutionary relationships, ecology, and economic importance. Peacock bass are the most popular sport fish pursued by recreational anglers in tropical freshwaters, and they support important fisheries in rivers and lakes in their native South America as well as other regions of the world where they have been introduced. The book is written in clear prose that allows any reader to appreciate key features of the morphology, population genetics, and reproductive biology of these colorful tropical freshwater fish. Each chapter begins with a vignette introducing an aspect of peacock bass taxonomy, ecology, or conservation based on a personal account from one of the authors. Also included are color photographs of peacock bass, their habitats, other tropical fishes, and the diverse wildlife encountered in rivers and forests of the Neotropics. Photographic guides and detailed descriptions of coloration patterns are provided for species identification, along with distribution maps and essential information related to fisheries management and the economic importance of peacock bass. Biologists interested in zoogeography and the ecological role peacock bass play as major predators in biodiverse rivers and lakes will find summaries of the latest information. Peacock bass have grown in popularity among aquarists, and the book provides basic information about captive care and environmental conditions in their natural habitats. This book is essential reading for biologists, fisheries managers, anglers, naturalists, and aquarists interested in these remarkable fish and the diverse tropical rivers they inhabit. Includes beautiful color photographs taken during field research Presents research vignettes to engage both scientists and laypersons Discusses feeding, cannibalism and effects on food webs Provides field maps and diagrams