Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Each pocket-size volume in the Eyewitness Handbooks series contains over 500 specially commissioned photographs. A quick reference identification key introduces the reader to the subject and guides him through the book. In addition, the introductory section of each volume informs enthusiasts of all ages how to take their interest one stage further.

Reviews provided by Syndetics

Library Journal Review

This illustrated, compact guide provides general information on the choice and care of fish, natural habitats, required aquarium conditions, and specific details on freshwater and marine tropical and coldwater fishes. Data for each species include family, common name, maximum adult size, physical characteristics of species, habitat, range, geographical distribution, peculiarities of species, alternative names, and a small, attractive photograph showing the male of the species. Key identification features are labeled; diet requirements, temperament, and tank levels where a particular fish dwells are described. Though this handbook is modestly priced in comparison with Nick Dakin's Macmillan Book of the Marine Aquarium ( LJ 8/93), the physically larger Macmillan volume gives more information on each species and fuller detail on the required aquarium conditions and suitable accompanying fish. Still, this book would be useful as a circulating volume for general collections where needed. --Judith B. Barnett, Pell Marine Science Lib., Univ. of Rhode Island, Kingston (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Booklist Review

Here's a handy guide that does what Dorling Kindersley's Eyewitness Handbooks do best: use pictures to give readers the information they want and need. In glorious full color, 500 marine and freshwater fish are pictured clearly and large enough to make this an identification manual that fish keepers won't want to be without. The fish are grouped into four general categories (tropical freshwater, cold-water freshwater, tropical marine, cold-water marine), then by family and species. Accompanying each clearly labeled photograph are brief remarks about habitat, behavior, and coloration; a small distribution map; and horizontal bar graphs supplying at-a-glance information on diet, temperament, and size. Mills doesn't provide enough for those setting up a tank for the first time, but the tips with which he leads off his text will start novices in the right direction. (Reviewed Nov. 15, 1993)1564582930Stephanie Zvirin