Unfortunately, this high diversity should not conceal the fact that, taken as a whole, these fishes are at great risk of becoming extinct in the near future. They suffer from the profound modifications brought about by man to their natural habitats and aquatic ecosystems, and are being replaced by more competitive introduced fish. Several species have already declined considerably since the authors’ first visit to the island, and one, discovered by them in 1991, is in all likelihood already extinct. Jean-Claude Nourissat and Patrick de Rham are the first to have brought back alive the majority of the species that are now being bred in Europe and North America. The ponds and aquaria of aquarists, professionals, and hobbyists are presently the only possibility of insuring the survival of these species.
This book gives also an overview of the richness and originality of Madagascar’s biodiversity, as the authors consider that the endemic cichlids are one of its important components and that they cannot be properly enjoyed and understood if one does not have some knowledge of the other remarkable living beings found on the island. Hopefully this book will also assist in promoting the conservation of Madagascar’s unique and endangered natural heritage.
Hardcover, 8.5 x 12” (21.5 x 30.5 cm), 192 pages, $59.50