06/08/93 ag508 <1> AQUATIC SURVIVAL Bulletin of the Aquatic Conservation Network Volume 1, Number 4 - December 1992 ISSN 1188-553X (unformatted version) 540 Roosevelt Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K2A 1Z8 Tel. (613) 729-4670. Fax. (613) 729-5613. CompuServe 71022,3537 Internet rob@pinetree.org *********** Aquatic Conservation Network Directors Dennis Hough, 3626 Glenwood Springs Dr., Kingwood, Texas 77345, USA. Tel: (713) 360-9549. Fax: (713) 360-0855 Rob Huntley, 540 Roosevelt Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K2A 1Z8. Tel: (613) 729-4670. Fax: (613) 729-5613. Shawn Prescott, Red Sea Fish pHarm Ltd., P.O. Box 4045, Eilat 88000, Israel. Tel: 972-7-331307. Fax: 972-7-379340. Advisory Directors Chris Andrews, National Aquarium in Baltimore Eugene Balon, Institute of Ichthyology, University of Guelph Heiko Bleher, Aquarium Rio, Germany Al Castro, formerly with the Steinhart Aquarium Bruce Gebhardt, North American Native Fishes Association Nelson Herwig, Houston Zoo Ken Lazara, American Museum of Natural History Paul Loiselle, New York Aquarium Gene Lucas, Biology Department, Drake University Gordon Reid, North of England Zoological Society Tony Ribbink, JLB Smith Institute of Ichthyology Daniel Richardson, Federation of American Aquarium Societies Craig Watson, Florida Cooperative Extension Service *********** AQUATIC SURVIVAL Bulletin of the Aquatic Conservation Network International Standard Serial Number - ISSN 1188-553X Published quarterly (March, June, September and December) by The Aquatic Conservation Network, Inc., 540 Roosevelt Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K2A 1Z8. Attn: Robert V. Huntley, Editor. Telephone: (613) 729-4670. Fax: (613) 729-5613. Upcoming deadlines for submissions are February 19, 1993, May 21, 1993 and August 20, 1993. Unless otherwise indicated, articles may be reprinted without permission provided that such use is not for financial gain and appropriate credit is given to the author and to Aquatic Survival. The views expressed in published material are those of the individual author and do not necessarily reflect those of the Aquatic Conservation Network. 06/08/93 ag508 <2> JOIN NOW! Annual membership is $25.00 (Canadian or U.S.) Aquatic Conservation Network 540 Roosevelt Avenue Ottawa, Ontario Canada K2A 1Z8 *********** Aquatic Survival Deadline for the next issue is February 19, 1993 *********** Back Issues Copies of back issues of _Aquatic Survival_ are available from the ACN, 540 Roosevelt Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K2A 1Z8. The cost is $4.00 each (Canadian or U.S. currency) to cover costs of copying, postage and handling. Back issues can also be downloaded (text only format) from the ACN/ CMDB library of CompuServe's Aquatic Data Center (FISHNET). *********** ACN E-MAIL You can now send electronic mail to the ACN using one of the following addresses CompuServe: 71022,3537 Internet: rob@pinetree.org 06/08/93 ag508 <3> BIODIVERSITY IN FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS by Michael Smith Freshwaters are home to a tremendous diversity of fish, amphibians, aquatic plants, invertebrates and microorganisms. The Amazon River alone contains an estimated 3000 species of fish - only 25 percent less than the total number of mammals worldwide. And freshwater biodiversity is among the most poorly known on Earth. Scientists believe that Thailand may have as many as 1000 species of freshwater fish, but only some 475 have actually been recorded. Freshwater resources have also been important to human society. This is indicated by the degree to which the development of civilization has been guided by the distribution of freshwater ecosystems. In both the Old World and the New, early culture was centred on freshwater habitats - Babylon between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, Egypt on the Nile, Rome on the Tiber, the capital of the Aztecs built on man-made islands in Lake Tenochtitlan, Paris on the Seine, Kinshasha on the Zaire River. Although groundwater supplies are important in localized areas, it is freshwater habitats on the surface - rivers, lakes, streams and wetlands - that provide most of the world's water for drinking, agriculture, sanitation and industry, as well as huge quantities of fish and shellfish. These are the essential requirement for cultural and economic development. Ironically, many of the rivers and lakes that nurtured human culture have been rendered serious threats to health and welfare as a result of pollution and other misuse. The quality of surface-water supplies can be estimated by referring to the status of their biodiversity, that is, the number of species that can complete their life cycles in the ecosystems that also supply fresh water. By this measure, aquatic resources have suffered severe deterioration world-wide. In economically troubled regions, freshwater biodiversity has been depressed by as much as 100 percent. For example, all native fishes in the Valley of Mexico are extinct (Miller et al., 1989). A recent survey in Malaysia found fewer than half of the 266 fish species previously known. On the island of Singapore, 18 out of 53 species of freshwater fish collected in 1934 could not be located in exhaustive searches only 30 years later. In the southeastern United States, 40 to 50 percent of freshwater snail species are now extinct or endangered due to the impoundment and channelization of rivers. Even on a continental scale, species loss can be very high. In North America, one third of the native freshwater fish species are extinct or endangered to some degree. Biodiversity in freshwater systems is distributed in a pattern that is fundamentally different from that in marine or terrestrial systems. Organisms on land or in the sea live in media that are more or less continuous over extensive regions, and species are able to adjust their ranges to some degree in response to changing climates or ecological conditions. But obligate freshwater species are unable to cross the land barriers that separate river drainages into discrete units. Freshwater species change their distributions only with the relatively slow geological process of surface erosion and reconnection of drainages in new patterns. This has three important consequences: 1. Freshwater species must survive climatic and ecological changes in place; 2. Freshwater biodiversity is usually highly localized, and even small lake or stream systems can be expected to harbour unique, locally evolved forms of life; and 3. Freshwater biodiversity is high even in regions where the number of species at any given site is low. This latter property arises from the fact that the species tend to be different from one site to another, leading to high totals when the sites are added together. Thus, even arid regions tend to have high levels of freshwater biodiversity, a consequence of the uniqueness of species in each isolated desert spring. Freshwater lakes are classical examples of "habitat islands". In this case, the "islands" are bodies of water surrounded by expanses of land. Like islands in general, lakes tend to have high levels of endemism, and in ancient lakes such as the rift lakes of Africa or Lake Baikal of Central Asia, levels of biodiversity can be spectacular. With hundreds of species and levels of endemism exceeding 90%, the East African lakes harbour some of the greatest concentrations of endemic species on earth. Unfortunately, lakes are like islands in other ways too: they suffer high rates of extinction when habitat modification begins or when exotic species are introduced. Introduction of non-native species is associated with depletion of biodiversity and collapse of major fisheries in such lakes as Lake Chapala of Mexico, Lake Gatun of Panama, Lake Victoria of Africa, and the Great lakes of North America (Courtenay and Stauffer, 1984; Miller et al., 1989; Oguto-Ohwayo, 1990). Regrettably, the introduction of non-native plants and animals is still often sanctioned or promoted by national or international organizations, even though it has had disastrous effects on freshwater biodiversity throughout the world (Barel et al.,1985; Kornfield and Carpenter, 1984; Kottelat, 1990; Whitten et al., 1987; Williams and Nowak, 1986). Other factors contributing to the decline of freshwater ecosystems and their native biota are chemical and thermal pollution, over- harvesting, and habitat modifications such as dam construction and channelization (Williams et al., 1989). These factors have affected biodiversity to different degrees in the developed and less- developed parts of the world. In Europe and North America, pollution, acidification and the physical modification of streams have had the greatest impact. In much of Latin America and Africa, over-harvesting and the introduction of non-native species are relatively more important as agents of biodiversity loss. Programs to protect freshwater biodiversity have lagged far behind the programs that are directed toward the terrestrial biota. In some cases, protected areas have been established that include lakes or small portions of watersheds. However, rivers and streams, having a predominantly linear character, cannot be adequately incorporated into protected areas. A few programs, such as the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act in the United States, take into account the uni-dimensional character of streams, but they have been applied on a very limited basis. The primary method of protecting freshwater biodiversity has been to designate particular species as threatened or endangered, making them subject to national recovery programs or international protection. Unfortunately, this approach is failing. In the United States, for example, no aquatic species has ever been removed from the government's endangered species list as a result of improvement in its conservation status, but several have been removed due to extinction. Recovery plans have been developed for only 56% of the freshwater fishes recognized as endangered by the United States government. Because streams are so highly linear, they frequently pass through more than one political jurisdiction. In many cases, the streams themselves constitute political boundaries. The Danube, for example, crosses or borders upon several European nations. Consequently, the management of riverine biodiversity is often subject to political considerations that are extraneous to biological issues. Adequate management of many of the world's important rivers will require well integrated international programs which have, to date, been slow in developing. Literature Cited Barel, C.N.D., R. Dorit, P.H. Greenwood et al. 1985. Destruction of fisheries in Africa's lakes. Nature 315:19-20. Courtenay, W.R. and J. Stauffer. 1984. Distribution, Biology and Management of Exotic Fishes. John Hopkins Univ. Press, Baltimore. Kornfield, I., and K.E. Carpenter. 1984. Cyprinids of Lake Lanao, Philippines: taxonomic validity, evolutionary rates and speciation scenarios. In A.A. Echelle and I. Kornfield (eds.), Evolution of Fish Species Flocks. University of Maine Press, Orono, Maine. pp. 69-84. Kottelat, M. 1990. Synopsis of the endangered Buntingi (Osteichthyes: Adrianichthyidae and Oryziidae) of Lake Poso, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, with a new reproductive guild and descriptions of three species. Ichthyological Exploration of Freshwaters 1(1):49-67. Miller, R.R., J.D. Williams and J.E. Williams. 1989. Extinctions of North American fishes during the past century. Fisheries 14(6):22- 38. Oguto-Ohwayo, R. 1990. The decline of the native fishes of lakes Victoria and Kyoga (East Africa) and the impact of introduced species, especially the Nile perch, _Lates niloticus_, and the Nile tilapia, _Oreochromis niloticus_. Environmental Biology of Fishes 27:81-96. Whitten, A.J., K.D. Bishop, S.V. Nash and L. Clayton. 1987. One or more extinctions from Sulawesi, Indonesia? Conservation Biology 1:42-48. Williams J.E., J.E. Johnson, D.A. Hendrickson, S. Contreras- Balderas, J.D. Williams, M. Navarro-Mendoza, D.E. McAllister, and J.E. Deacon. 1989. Fishes of North America: endangered, threatened or of special concern: 1989. Fisheries 14(6):2-20. Williams, J.D., and R.M. Nowak. 1986. Vanishing species in our own backyard: extinct fish and wildlife of the United States and Canada. In L. Kaufman and K. Mallory (eds.), The Last Extinction. MIT Press, Cambridge, Massachusetts. pp. 107-140. ********* This paper by Dr. Smith appeared in a similar version as: Anonymous. 1992. Biodiversity in freshwater ecosystems. In: Global Biodiversity Strategy. World Resources Institute, World Conservation Union and United Nations Environment Programme, 244 pp. ********** Dr. Michael Smith can be contacted at the Center for Marine Conservation, 1725 DeSales Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036, U.S.A. 06/08/93 ag508 <4> LETTERS Sherkin Island Marine Station Sherkin Island Marine Station is privately run by my family and myself. We receive no state funding for our research and so have to find every penny we need. The marine station is staffed by young, well-qualified, volunteer biologists for some 8 months of the year. Normally we have 12-15 at any one time. The major research work at the Station includes a Rocky Shore monitoring programme introduced in 1975 and still ongoing, taking in 60 sites in the area. The plankton survey is in place since 1978. Other surveys include plants, insects, butterflies, moths, otters and birds. We have a library which we are very proud of. Much of the material is sent to us by people worldwide. Without this help we just could not have such an updated reference library for those working here. Our reprint collection is now over 40,000 items. Books, journals and reports are over 30,000. Our publications include our annual conference proceedings and other special conference/workshop results. We have a Bulletin series and sadly at present, due to financial restraints, our Journal of Sherkin Island is in abeyance. However, we hope the next issue will be published in early 1992. We have a quarterly newspaper Sherkin Comment, which is a 32 page tabloid in colour. This has a printing of 32,000 copies and is distributed, in the main, to schools, politicians, business executives and civil servants. Our Red Tide Newsletter is a quarterly publication which is on subscription and is distributed worldwide. We exchange with over 150 institutions worldwide. I wonder if you would be interested in setting up an exchange for our quarterly Red Tide Newsletter for your "Aquatic Survival". Yours sincerely, Matt Murphy, Director Sherkin Island Marine Station Sherkin Island, Co. Cork Ireland ACN Objectives Having browsed through the Aquatic Survival issues you sent me, please allow me to give a few comments. Currently planned activities suggest that the ACN objectives will focus on captive propagation (preservation "_ex situ_") and, perhaps, on gathering life history data often badly needed by environmental conservationists (obtained by observation of aquarium stock). Regardless of this really enormous task, I would like to recommend the addition of further objectives to the list! (1) It is a commonplace that every penny invested in a conservation effort in the field (_in situ_) is very likely to save many dollars to be spent on captive efforts. Of course, field projects should be initiated, managed, and evaluated by the IUCN or cooperating local environmentalist groups. Nevertheless, I suppose that the ACN could easily gain access to aquarium journals (and the like) throughout the world. It should pose little problem to launch "Urgent (Aquatic) Conservation Actions" comparable to the activities of amnesty international (AI)! These actions could include calls for letters to influence or promote current decisions of governments, or fundraising for specific conservation projects. (2) Another point is that many conservation efforts in the tropics will only succeed if the indigenous (or local) human population is able to gain some profit, too. Obviously, aquarium fishes are a resource which could be sustainable if overexploitation can be prevented (e.g. local monopolies in protected and monitored areas). I guess: many of those hobbyists interested in wild stock will be ready to spend (much) more money on specimens from such sustainable rainforest utilisation projects. Members from the aquarium trade - give it a try! Kai-Erik Witte Institute of Limnology University of Constance P.O. Box 5560 W-7750 Konstanz Germany 06/08/93 ag508 <5> THE BREEDER'S REGISTRY by Stanley Brown The Breeder's Registry is directed entirely at marine organisms. The objectives are: 1. To encourage closed system captive breeding of marine organisms. 2. To create a centralized information source for methods and techniques being employed as well as observations concerning the spawning habits and rearing of larvae of specific species. 3. To develop a registry for active breeders to acquire and exchange brood stock and increase gene pools. All of this is designed to limit demands on wild stock. Currently legislation has been enacted to limit and eliminate collection in certain areas. Pressure from environmental groups continues. This global concern is not unwarranted. Collection methods involving cyanide have resulted in the destruction of reef environments, especially in the Philippines. International laws are difficult to enact. If demands on wild stocks can be lessened by captive breeding efforts, this would result in less collecting, including collection by cyanide and other drugs/chemicals. As information is collected, it is entered into a database. Genera currently represented in the database include _Amphiprion, _Gobiosomas, _Hippocampus_, _Centrophyge_, _Turbo_, _Caulerpa_, _Brachionus_ and _Arcatia_. As multiple files are obtained on the same species, and families, composite profiles can be assembled. This information would serve to eliminate the trial and error approach. It is also thought that observations from different sources might help to give a more complete picture. Much of the information assembled on "ornamentals" has come about by the efforts of "non-credentialed" hobbyists. It is hoped that the scientific community can become more integrated in the "marine hobby". Funding for study on ornamentals seems to be very limited and of a low priority. The longevity of the marine aquarium hobby can only come about by industry involvement and so far, Aquarium Systems and Mardel Laboratories have both expressed interest in the Breeder's Registry. The Registry has been fortunate to receive continued exposure as a result of my writings for _Marine Fish Monthly_, as well as an article that has been published in 6 major society newsletters, including the Marine Aquarium Society of North America (I am a member of their Breeder's Committee). The first issue of the Registry's newsletter is set for release in early January. Joyce Wilkerson of Chester, Virginia, has been of great assistance in bringing the newsletter into reality. Interested people should write to the address below for more information and a questionnaire. At present there is no fee to participate in the Breeder's Registry except for a request for two SSAE (stamped and self addressed envelopes) from each participant. Contact: Stanley Brown, Breeder's Registry, 2645 Point Reyes Way, Sacramento, California 95826, U.S.A. CompuServe: 72630,2247. 06/08/93 ag508 <6> _CICHLASOMA_ STUDY GROUP by Patrick A. Tosie, Sr. The _Cichlasoma_ Study Group is a group of serious hobbyists interested exclusively in the species of fish commonly assigned to the genus _Cichlasoma_. We are interested in the study, identifica- tion, breeding, maintenance, importation, distribution, and enjoyment of the species of the genus _Cichlasoma_. We offer a quarterly publication, CICHLASOMA POWER!, that has various articles by members, as well as sell-want-trade ads, information, photos, book offers, question and answer columns and much more. We also have a species maintenance program, and several members make regular collecting trips. Of the over 100 species of identified _Cichlasoma_, our species maintenance program has recorded 64 species: _C. alfari_ _C. loiselli_ _C. amazorum_ _C. longimanus_ _C. appendiculatum_ _C. macracanthum_ _C. aureum_ _C. maculicauda_ _C. bartoni_ _C. managuense_ _C. beani_ _C. meeki_ _C. bifasciatum_ _C. melanurus_ _C. breidhori _ _C. nebuliferum_ _C. bulleri _ _C. nicaraguense_ _C. carpinte_ _C. nigrofasciatum_ _C. centrarchus_ _C. octofasciatum_ _C. citrinellum_ _C. panamense_ _C. coeruleus_ _C. pasionis_ _C. cyanoguttatum_ _C. pearsei_ _C. dovii_ _C. regani_ _C. ellioti_ _C. robertsoni_ _C. fenestratum_ _C. rostratum_ _C. fenestratum_ "pink" _C. sajica_ _C. festae_ _C. salvini_ _C. friedrichsthalii_ _C. septemfasciatum_ _C. gibbiceps_ _C. severum_ _C. godmanni_ _C. spectabile_ _C. grammodes_ _C. spilurum_ _C. guttlatum_ _C. spinosissimum_ _C. hartwegi_ _C. steindachneri_ _C. hellabrunni_ _C. synspilum_ _C. helleri_ _C. taenia_ _C. intermedium_ _C. temporale_ _C. irregularae_ _C. tetracanthus_ _C. istlanum_ _C. trimaculatus_ _C. krausii_ _C. umbriferum_ _C. lentiginosum_ _C. urophthalmus_ Dues are only $12.00 (U.S. and Canada) or $15.00 (overseas) per year. Send your name, address and phone number to the membership chairman along with your check or money order (in U.S. funds, please) payable to the _Cichlasoma_ Study Group. Contact: Patrick A. Tosie, Sr., Membership Chairman, 1813 Locks Mill Dr., Fenton, Mo., 63026-2662, U.S.A. Tel: (314) 225-7625 (eve.) or (314) 821-6700 (days), Fax: (314) 821-6705. 06/08/93 ag508 <7> NEWS FROM FISHNET by Rodney Harper The past two months have shown an expansion of the networking abilities between ACN and FISHNET. With the addition of 2 online message centres and an area for information files to be stored, the ACN and FISHNET have taken a great step forward towards global networking. With the aid of CompuServe's vast network and ability to utilize other global Electronic Mail networks, ACN and FISHNET have opened up a new realm in communications. The two online message centres include: - a public message centre shared by the ACN and the CMDB Project (FISHNET's Captive Maintenance Data Base); and - a private message centre with ACN member access only and for business related matters. The shared ACN/CMDB Library contains such things as back issues of the ACN Bulletin "Aquatic Survival", the fishes section of the IUCN Red List of Threatened Animals, transcripts of online discussions from the message centres, and other documents pertaining to aquatic conservation (as well as the CMDB files). FISHNET has developed a weekly mailing list of transcripts of online discussions from both the public and private message centres (the latter is sent to ACN members only). For those who do not have access to Compuserve, but do have access to some form of Electronic Mail, you can possibly be added to the distribution list. You may also participate in the discussions by sending your correspondence to the FISHNET liaison. Your messages will be added to the online discussion as they are received. If you wish to take part in the Electronic Discussions, please send a request to the FISHNET liaison via one of the addresses below. Please mention what Electronic Network you have access to. These are known to be compatible networks so far: Internet, BITNET, USENET, MCI, FIDONET and Compuserve CMAIL. Send all correspondence to: Mail: FISHNET, 102 Haram Street, Sheffield, AL 35660, U.S.A. Fax: (205) 386-7615 Inquiries: (205) 383-3009 CompuServe: Cmail - 76703,4256 Internet: 76703.4256@compuserve.com 06/08/93 ag508 <8> FRESHWATER FISHES TAXON ADVISORY GROUP - FFTAG A petition has been drafted to form a Freshwater Fishes Taxon Advisory Group (FFTAG) under the auspices of the American Associ- ation of Zoological Parks and Aquariums (AAZPA). The formation of the TAG has been requested by Mike Hutchins, Director of the AAZPA Conservation Center. The petitioners are Paul V. Loiselle, New York Aquarium and Douglas Warmolts, Columbus Zoo. The document is in the final drafting stage and will likely be submitted to AAZPA before the end of 1992. The fundamental purpose of the FFTAG is to expedite communication between and coordinate husbandry activities amongst AAZPA institutions displaying freshwater fish species, and to advise participating institutions and the AAZPA staff with regard to their management and conservation. The petition proposes a number of TAG members plus a list of proposed TAG advisors. Several ACN members and advisors appear on these two lists. In particular, with respect to FFTAG liaison with the hobby, TAG advisors include Rob Huntley on behalf of the ACN and Russ McAndrews, in his role as American Cichlid Association Secretary and Species Maintenance Chairperson. FFTAG Fax Tree Doug Warmolts has proposed to establish "Fax Tree" for Endangered Fishes Breeding and Conservation Programs under the auspices of the FFTAG. The tree has been established to facilitate fast and efficient circulation of information, brief articles, announce- ments, and inventory updates. As a Fax Tree participant, the ACN will receive faxes and in turn fax this information along to a designated receiver. Relevant information will be made available to ACN members through "Aquatic Survival". Mid-year FFTAG Meeting A mid-year meeting of the Freshwater Fishes Taxon Advisory Group has been scheduled during the Third International Aquarium Congress, April 25 - 29, 1993, in Boston (details in the following announcement). The regular annual FFTAG meeting will be held during the AAZPA National Conference, September 1993, in Omaha. Subsequent developments regarding the FFTAG petition will be reported in "Aquatic Survival". For more immediate information regarding the FFTAG, contact Doug Warmolts, Curator, Johnson Aquatic Complex, Columbus Zoo, 9990 Riverside Dr., Box 400, Powell, Ohio, 43065-0400, U.S.A. Tel: (614) 645-3446, Fax: (614) 645-3465. 06/08/93 ag508 <9> COMING EVENTS ENDEMIC FRESHWATER FISHES OF THE NORTHERN MEDITERRANEAN BASIN: STATUS, TAXONOMY AND CONSERVATION January 28 - February 1, 1993 This workshop will be held at Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat in France. For more information see the article on the Tour du Valat elsewhere in this issue. THE CONSERVATION OF AQUATIC SYSTEMS February 18-19, 1993 This public symposium is being organised on behalf of the Royal Irish Academy in Dublin by Dr. Julian D. Reynolds of Trinity College, University of Dublin. In this symposium, there will be study of the problems of both habitat and species conservation, with case-histories on the reasons and extent of threats to aquatic species such as otters, sea-trout, freshwater crayfish and pearl mussels. Experts will discuss the different threats to these systems, from introductions and exploitation to pollution and global warming. National and international legal obstacles to protection will be examined. Finally there will be representations from conservation bodies and government. The symposium should be published by the Academy within the next year. Contact: Dr. Julian D. Reynolds, Senior Lecturer in Biology, Department of Zoology, Trinity College, University of Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland. Tel: +353-1-7021366. Fax: +353-1-772694. SEA WORLD WHALE SYMPOSIUM February 20, 1993 San Diego, California This symposium will include the latest findings of researchers and conservationists studying endangered whales and dolphins. For further information contact Robin Lowder, Sea World Education Department, 1720 South Shores Road, San Diego, CA 92109, U.S.A. Tel: (619) 226-3903; Fax: (619) 226-3996. STUDBOOK I AND SSP COORDINATOR TRAINING - AAZPA March 16-20, 1993 For further information or an application, contact Debra Boyster, AAZPA Conservation Academy, St. Louis Zoo, Forest Park, St. Louis, MO 63110, U.S.A. Tel: (314) 781-0900, ext. 207. 3RD INTERNATIONAL AQUARIUM CONGRESS The 3rd International Aquarium Congress will be held Sunday April 25, through Thursday, April 29, 1993, at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A. The theme of this congress is AQUARIUM 2000: "THE NEXT GENERATION". The Monday morning general session will feature invited presenta- tions. Subsequent sessions will mingle technical papers, case studies and panel discussions. Plenary sessions are scheduled for Advances in Biology/Animal Care; Aquariums in the 21st Century, The Next Generation; Freshwater Fish; Marine Fish; Aquaculture/Fish Culture; Conservation and Education. For more information contact John H. Prescott, Congress Chairman, New England Aquarium, Central Wharf, Boston, Massachusetts 02210- 3399, U.S.A. Tel: (617) 973-5200. "ADVANCES IN MARICULTURE: TECHNIQUES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS FOR PROVIDING MARINE ORGANISMS FOR BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH". May 16-29, 1993 A course which combines intensive laboratory training with reviews of basic principles relevant to culture/maintenance of marine organisms. For information contact Dorianne Chrysler, Admissions Coordinator, Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, MA 02543, U.S.A. Tel: (508) 548-3705, ext. 401. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF ICHTHYOLOGISTS AND HERPETOLOGISTS May 27 - June 2, 1993 University of Texas at Austin The 73rd Annual Meeting of the American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists (ASIH) will be held in conjunction with annual meetings of The Herpetologists' League, the American Elasmobranch Society and the Larval Fish Conference and American Fisheries Society Early Life History Section Meeting. Nine symposia are planned as well as workshops, poster sessions and field trips. The symposia include: Biology of the Snappers: Lutjanidae; Measures of Condition in Larval Fishes; Captive Biology of Elamobranchs; Conservation and Genetics of Salmon, Trout and Char; Fish Ecology in South America; Biology of Feeding in Fishes, Amphibians and Reptiles; Sexual Selection: What Has Been Learned From Ectotherms; Lizard Ecology: The Third Generation; and _Sceloporus_: A Model System Field trips include: Freshwater Fishes - San Marcos River headwaters; Marine Fishes - Port Aransas and/or Gulf of Mexico; Amphibians and Reptiles - Austin and San Marcos; Anuran Amphibians - Bastrop State Park; Balcones Canyonlands Birding Trip. The regular registration fee is US$90.00 if paid prior to April 1, 1993 (special rates available for students and spouses). Additional fees apply to special events such as the banquet, barbecue and field trips. Residence hall accommodation is available including a compulsory meal package. Off-campus accommodation is also available. There are a separate contact persons for different aspects of the conference (registration, accommodation, submitting abstracts, symposia organizers, field trip organizers, etc.). For general information contact the Thompson Conference Center, The University of Texas at Austin, P.O. Box 7879, Austin Texas 78713-7879, U.S.A. Tel: (512) 471-3121 or (800) 882-8784 (outside the Austin area); Fax: (512) 471-0647. AQUARAMA '93 June 24-27, 1993 Singapore _Note_: The information provided in the September issue of Aquatic Survival about Aquarama '93 was incorrect. Aquarama '93 will be held at the World Trade Centre in Singapore. Singapore was chosen as the site because the country is the regional distribution centre for fish breeders, aquatic plant growers, importers and exporters. This is the third time Aquarama has been staged and it has established itself as an international industry event. It is expected to be 1 1/2 times larger than last year with 40% local distributors and 60% foreign distributors displaying products ranging from rare and unusual strains of freshwater and marine aquarium fishes to new fish foods and other accessories. Last year almost 30,000 visitors attended the event. Conference Besides the exhibition, an intellectual gathering of scientists, researchers and prominent personalities in the fish industry will discuss possible solutions to varied and complex issues related to the ornamental fish industry. The conference theme is "Global Perspectives of the Aquarium Industry - Present and Future". Speakers include world authorities such as John Dawes, Shigeza Kamihata, Heiko Bleher and professionals from Singapore's institutions including Mr. Leslie Cheong from the Aquaculture Branch, Fisheries division of the Primary Production Department and Dr. Violet Phang from the National University of Singapore's Department of Zoology. Topics include: New Market Opportunities: International Perspectives - Current Trends in the International Aquatic Trade; - The Ornamental Aquatic Industry in Singapore, South America, Malaysia, U.S.A. and Japan. International Legislation and the Aquatic Trade - CITES and the Aquatic Trade; - The Effects of Government Quarantine Period on the Aquatic Trade; - European Legislation - the Single Market and Its Effect on Member and Non-Member States; - Regulations and Restrictions in the United States; - Survey of the Import and Export Aquatic Trade in Europe with a View to Prevent the Threats of International Bureaucratic Legislative Disasters. Conservation and the Aquatic Trade - Global Problems, Opportunities, Solutions and Worldwide Perspective of Aquatic Habitats; - Cooperative Captive Breeding and Conservation Projects Between Aquarists and the Scientific Community; - Ranching of Coral Fishes and Marine Ornamentals; - Conservation and the Aquatic Trade in Sri Lanka; - Production of New Varieties of Aquatic Plants by Tissue Culture as a Conservation Tool. Genetics, Breeding, Biodiversity and Nutrition - Ornamental Fish Genetics - Challenges, Complications and Possibilities; - Review of Ornamental Fish Diets - Theoretical Considerations and Practical Applications; - What's New in Breeding and Hybridising of Goldfish and Koi; - Review of Latest Breeding Techniques as Applied to Ornamental Aquaculture in the U.S.; - Frozen Assets - Development and Production of Deep Frozen Foods (Advantages & Disadvantages, Problems & Possibilities). Health Management/ Packaging/ Transportation/ Distribution - Health and Nutrition - Inseparable Factors in Fish Survival; - New Method of Packing Fishes in the Petshop and Distribution Through Mail Order; - Ornamental Fish Vaccines - Prospects and Challenges for the Future; - The Health of Fish in Transit - Latest and Best Packing Methods for Intercontinental Shippers. Contact in Asia and America: Mr. John Neo, Expoconsult International Exhibitions and Conference, 46A Horne Road, Singapore 0820. Tel: (65) 2999273; Fax: (65) 2999782. Contact in Europe: Ms. Nadia Adrian, Expoconsult Netherlands, Industrieweg 54, P.O. Box 200, 3600, AE Maarsen, Netherlands. Tel: 3465-73777; Fax: 3465-50372. AAZPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE September 12-16, 1993 Omaha, Nebraska The AAZPA Annual Conference program offers zoo and aquarium professionals an opportunity to present challenging ideas and share valuable information with delegates from around the world. The Annual Conference program is organized around moderated, 90- minute general and concurrent sessions. Poster displays will also be present. Proposals are currently being accepted by the Conference Program Committee until March 31, 1993. Proposals should be directed to Paul Grayson, Chairman, AAZPA Conference Program Committee, Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46222, U.S.A. Tel: (317) 630-2054; Fax: (317) 630- 5153. For information about attending the conference, contact Randy Wisthoff, Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo, 3701 South 10th Street, Omaha, NE 68107, U.S.A. Tel: (402) 733-8401. 06/08/93 ag508 <10> IUCN RED LIST - 1990 The IUCN (World Conservation Union) has granted permission to the ACN to reproduce the fishes section of the 1990 Red List of Threatened Animals. The IUCN holds the copyright to the Red List but permits reproduction of the data for non-commercial purposes. A copy has been provided to all ACN members with this issue of "Aquatic Survival" and will be provided to new members while supplies last. Only a small print run was conducted in light of the fact that the next publication of the IUCN Red List is anticipated in 1993. It is hoped that the ACN will be given similar rights to reproduce relevant portions of the next edition. The list has also been uploaded to the ACN's electronic library in the ACN/CMDB Library section of FISHNET's Aquatic Data Center (see article on FISHNET elsewhere in this issue). Look for FILE05.TXT. Users of this list are requested to provide feedback, including comments, further information, and suggestions for additions to (or deletions from) the list. Any significant changes which are proposed MUST be accompanied by data or well-substantiated opin- ions. Feedback should be provided to: World Conservation Monitoring Centre 219, Huntingdon Road Cambridge CB3 0DL U.K. Tel: (0223) 277314 Telex: 817036SCMUG Fax: (0223) 277136 For information regarding the purchase of the publication "1990 IUCN Red List of Threatened Animals" or for a free copy of the complete catalogue of other IUCN Conservation Library publications, please write to the above address. 06/08/93 ag508 <11> PORTUGUESE AQUARIST ASSOCIATION SUMMARY OF RESEARCH RELATIVE TO THE CONSERVATION OF THREATENED FRESHWATER FISH OF THE IBERIC PENINSULA submitted by Rui A.G. Sousa The Portuguese Aquarist Association (Associacao Portuguesa de Aquariofilos) or APA, was founded in 1984 and is a member of the Iberic Federation of Aquarist Societies (Federacao Iberica das Sociedades Aquariofilas) or FISA. This overview of the APA's conservation activities is organized as several short summaries of much larger reports which were presented by the APA at annual meetings of FISA. 1988 APA Report to FISA In 1988, at the 3rd Meeting of the Iberic Federation of Aquarist Societies, the APA presented a communication entitled "The Development and Practice of Aquariophily with Freshwater Species from the Iberic Peninsula (Portugal/Spain)". The main objectives were: (a) To propagate Iberic freshwater species within aquarist associations; (b) To create within the Iberic aquarist societies, research groups for the purpose of study, captive breeding and conservation of endangered fish species; (c) To share information on the aquarium maintenance of those endangered species between aquarists and the Iberic Federation of Aquarist Societies. (d) To create safe and simple ways for the exchange of species (especially reproducing pairs, but also single specimens); (e) To establish contacts with official entities, laboratories of aquatic biology and other organizations involved with the conservation of the aquatic environment. To make this plan known to these agencies and to obtain support for the work in the field done by associations and their members. (f) To survey and classify places and species which are considered to be most in need of intervention. To study and subsequently develop proper protection conditions with the help of official and private agencies; (g) To create mechanisms which provide for the control of exchanges and sales of specimens by aquarists, which forbid the capture of fish from their natural habitat by other than designated members of aquarist associations (namely the ones from the research groups), and the transfer of any money obtained to the departments of study and research of the associations. 1989 APA Report to FISA In 1989, at the 4th Meeting of Iberic Federation of Aquarist Societies, the APA presented a communication concerning the initiatives to include in the project written above: FIRST STAGE: (a) Publication of a poster about threatened species that can be conserved and preserved in aquariology; (b) Creation of a symbol to identify the campaign, which will be called "Aquariology: Study, Reproduce, Protect"; (c) Creation of a crachat with the symbol of the campaign; (d) Publication of a poster about the anatomy, the internal and external biology of a fish and also showing the three types of natural habitat representative of our ichthyological species. SECOND STAGE: (a) Identification of the zones of natural habitat of species considered as "in high risk of extinction"; (b) Study of the zones of natural habitat and classification of the state of the environment (equilibrium, degradation); (c) Collecting of specimens to try their captive breeding and reproduction; (d) Providing of aquariums at the headquarters of the aquarists associations with all the material needed for the reproduction, conservation, and captive breeding of the species that will be studied in this programme; (e) Contacts with official organizations of conservation of environment and natural reserves for the delimitation of probable places to introduce those species, preserving them in places of limited access; (f) Submission of proposals to the appropriate official entities for the protection of the delimited zones and its classification as potential places for the breeding and "spawning area" for the ichthyological species in this research. ICHTHYOLOGICAL SPECIES PROPOSED FOR RESEARCH, AND CONSIDERED AT HIGH RISK OF EXTINCTION IN THE IBERIC PENINSULA (PORTUGAL/SPAIN) Family: Cyprinidae Scientific Name: _Rutilus arcasi macrolepidotus_ Comment: Endemic species in the littoral centre of Portugal. Family: Cyprinidae Scientific Name: _Anaecypris hispanicus_ Comment: Endemic species from Iberic Peninsula at the south/center, found next to the Guadiana River. Family: Gasterosteidae Scientific Name: _Gasterosteus aculeatus_ Comment: Found along the west littoral and south of Portugal and along the littoral north and south of Spain. Family: Blenniidae Scientific Name: _Blennius fluviatilis_ Comment: Localization in the littoral south zone of Portugal and Spain. Family: Cyprinodontidae Scientific Name: _Aphanius iberus_ Comment: Endemic species from the Iberic Peninsula in restricted areas of the littoral south of Portugal and littoral south of Spain (next to the frontier between Portugal and Spain in the zone of Valencia). Family: Cyprinodontidae Scientific Name: _Valencia hispanica_ Comment: endemic species from the littoral south of Spain, and zone of Valencia. 1990 APA Report to FISA In 1990, at the 5th Meeting of the Iberic Federation of Aquarist Societies, the APA presented a list of the species which will be the APA target group. Also presented was a list of the research work already done, the research nearing completion, and proposed future research within the responsibility of the APA At this same meeting, the APA presented a proposal for the formation of a Centre of Studies and Ichthyological/Aquarist Research (Centro de Estudo e Pesquisa Ictiologica e Aquariologica (CEPIA)). The "Centre of Studies and Icthyological/Aquarist Research" is a philanthropic organization with no profitable aims, working on a national and Iberic level. The objectives of the CEPIA include: - study, investigation, and scientific research of ichthyological species from internal and littoral waters; - the conservation and protection of subaquatic specimens and their natural wild habitats; - the conservation and reproduction of ichthyological species at risk of extinction; - the scientific research in the area of aquariology and its development and growth for appropriate contributions by hobbyists and trade. The main aims are: - to serve as a liaison with official entities from the government, associations, centres of environment defense, centres of ichthyological research, aquarist research groups, and with public and private aquariums; - to promote the conservation, protection and research of native ichthyological species and their wild natural habitat in Portugal, Iberic Peninsula, Azores, and Madeira; - to get involved in cases or issues at an international level that are somehow related to the action of this organization. The Portuguese Aquarist Association, through its research groups in the areas of aquariology & ichthyology and aquaterrariology & herpetology has to date accomplished the following: - Localization of the herpetological species of the municipality of Alenquer. - Localization of _Cambarus affinis_ in the municipality of Aviz. - Localization of _Fundulus heteroclitus_ in the south of Portugal - Localization of _Chamaleo chamaleon_ on the island of Tavira/Portugal - Research and localization of ichthyological species threatened and almost extinct in the South of Portugal - Algarve - Castro Marim. - Research and localization of ichthyological and herpetological species and aquatic plants of freshwater and salted water in St. Michael's Island - Azores - Portugal. 1991 APA Report to FISA In 1991, during the 6th Meeting of the Iberic Federation of Aquarist Societies, the APA presented a report of scientific research conducted by the APA in the Natural Reserve of Sapal of Castro Marim /Algarve /Portugal. The text which follows is only the introduction of that study and a list of the ichthyological and herpetological species localized. The official report contained 20 pages of text/report, 60 photos, 50 slides, and one video (of 3 hours) of habitat/species/initiatives of work, 10 maps, and 5 statistical pictures. As part of its campaign "Aquariology: Study, Reproduce, Protect", APA is developing a localization of the aquatic species from the Natural Reserve of Sapal of Castro Marim and Vila Real de St. Antonio to find in this zone species considered to be at high risk of extinction in the south of the Peninsula Iberica. This research is made in connection with the National Service of Parks, Reserves and Nature Conservation through the Natural Reserve of Sapal of Castro Marim and Vila Real de St. Antonio, as well as state and private organizations related to aquariology and environment. Tasks done at the place of the research in the Natural Reserve of Sepal of Castro Marim and Vila Real de St. Antonio: (1) Localization of the ichthyological species considered at risk of extinction; (2) Localization and classification of the ichthyological species collected; (3) Classification of the aquatic plants from the streams in delimited areas where those species are found; (4) Collection and analysis of water from those places; (5) Registration of subaquatic, aquatic, and terrestrial animals and plants, types of soil, pollution agents, degradation degree, conservation and pollution next to those places where species mentioned above were localized and collected; (6) Registration in photos and video of the places where the research took place, and also of the specimens and collection process; (7) Collecting in small flows (streams) which run into the delimited area; (8) Collecting in the principal flow of water (Guadiana River); (9) Definition of the environmental impact caused by the construction of the future international bridge over the Guadiana River (aquatic environment); (10) Definition of the environmental impact in the "esteiros" (little canal zones) area due to the installation of aquicola production zones; (11) Registration of the values and chemical parameters of the waters next to the zones of "marinhas" =salt-pan (flooded but not used), aquicolas exploitations and rural exploitations; (12) Registration of the local conditions of the environment during the collecting time. IDENTIFICATION OF THE ICHTHYOLOGICAL SPECIES COLLECTED IN THE NATURAL RESERVE OF SAPAL OF CASTRO MARIM AREA PLACE/HABITAT SPECIES IDENTIFICATION Sapal Venta Moinhos _Fundulus heteroclitus_ _Gambusia affinis_ _Anguilla anguilla_ _Atherina boyeri_ _Syngnathus abaster_ _Palaemonetes varius_ _Pleurodeles waltl_ _Tarentola mauritanica_ _Rana perezi_ Serro do Bufo _Mugil cephalus_ _Pomatoschistus microps_ _Gambusia affinis_ _Fundulus heteroclitus_ Ribeira Rio Seco _Rutilus alburnoides_ _Rutilus emmingie_ Ponte Esteveira Sul _Mugil cephalus_ _Pomatoschistus microps_ _Fundulus heteroclitus_ Esteiro da Leziria _Fundulus heteroclitus_ _Atherina boyeri_ _Anguilla anguilla_ _Gambusia affinis_ _Syngnathus abaster_ _Mugil cephalus_ _Palaemonetes varius_ Forte S. Sebastiao _Dicentrarchus labrax_ _Fundulus heteroclitus_ _Mugil cephalus_ _Gambusia affinis_ C. Marim/salinas _Uca tangeri_ Horta de El Rei _Pachygrapsus marmoratus_ _Pomatochistus microps_ _Palaemonetes varius_ C. Marim/Olhos _Gambusia affinis_ _Rana perezi_ _Natrix maura_ Ribeira do Beliche _Gambusia affinis_ _Lepomis gibbosus_ _Anguilla anguilla_ _Barbus microcephalus_ _Rutilus alburnoides_ _Rutilus emmingie_ _Palaemonetes sp._ 1992 APA Report to FISA In 1992, during the 7th Meeting of Iberica Federation of Aquarist Societies, the APA presented some reports referring to aquariology research with some of the ichthyological species considered in risk of extinction in the Iberic Peninsula (Portugal/Spain). The APA also presented a proposal for the creation of a Public Aquarium inside the Lisbon Zoo devoted to freshwater species from various continents. At the moment a protocol of collaboration is about to be signed between APA and the Zoo of Lisbon involving APA participation in the installation of a Public Aquarium inside the Zoo area in a space of about 700 square meters. The proposed exhibits will include some freshwater tanks and aquariums from tropical regions, semitropical, warm and cold regions, with ichthyological species from Europe, Asia, Africa, North, South, and Central America, as well as Indo-Australian species. It will also include some ichthyological species at risk of extinction. There will be a laboratory for the maintenance and reproduction of those species and for research in the area reserved for the aquariums. Research Summary - _Fundulus heteroclitus_ (1) Facing this controversy about the classification of this species (_Fundulus heteroclitus_ is the taxonomic classification done in Portugal and _Valencia lozanoi_ is the taxonomic classification done in Spain for the same species), the APA has chosen to follow the classification done in Portugal, primarily due to contacts already made with some international organizations which give more credit to the Portuguese classification. (2) The specimens collected for research were captured at the Natural Reserve of Sapal Castro Marim/Vila Real de Santo Antonio during the field work for the localization of ichthyological species endangered at the South of the Iberic Peninsula. (3) After applying new procedures for acclimatization and maintenance reproduction in captivity was recently accomplished. Research work carried out in 1990 and 1991 had no satisfactory results. (4) At the end of the first semester of 1992, the research work was successful, using only the basic of aquarium maintenance. We expect to be successful as well with reproduction in tanks and artificial lakes. (5) As this species exists only in a very small area of Portugal, we may consider these results as very important in the effort to avoid extinction. Research Summary - _Gasterosteus aculeatus_ and _Rutilus arcasi macrolepidotus_ (1) During the program "Aquariology: Study, Reproduce, Protect", a study of the maintenance, reproduction and breeding of these endangered species was conducted. (2) _Gasterosteus aculeatus_ is already in a critical phase of total extinction in the South of the Iberic Peninsula. _Rutilus arcasi macrolepidotus_ is endemic to a restricted local area in the littoral center of Portugal. (3) A few specimens of the two species were captured in their wild and natural habitats, and then maintained in aquariums and artificial lakes and subjected to periodic observations. (4) At the end of the first semester of 1992, that work proved to be successful, with reproduction of both species in the artificial lake (capacity of about 2000 litres of water). (5) With these fine results we may conclude that identical conditions should be created for the maintenance and reproduction of species in risk of extinction. If this happens, it will be one way of preserving the ichthyological species through the combined efforts of aquarists, biologists, and ichthyologists. The original 1992 report contained 20 pages of informative texts and 36 slides. In this report, reference is also made to work concerning the reproduction of the species _Aphanius iberus_ and _Valencia hispanica_. These two species are also at risk of extinction and are protected by the government law in the littoral South of Spain. Contact: Rui A.G. Sousa, Presidente, Associacao Portuguesa de Aquariofilos, Rua Sacadura Cabral, 22 E-4-Esq., 2580 Alenquer, Portugal. 06/08/93 ag508 <12> THE STATION BIOLOGIQUE DE LA TOUR DU VALAT The Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat was established in 1948 by Dr. Luc Hoffmann as a private research institute, primarily for field ornithological studies. The station also conducted research on invertebrate and plant ecology, on soils, hydrology and hydrochemistry. The Tour du Valat is of prime conservation value because of its location, on the edge of a larger and more saline R^Âserve Nationale de Camargue and because Tour du Valat-Petit Badon contains habitats which complement those of the R^Âserve Nationale. At present Tour du Valat is completing a programme of research and management (1986-1990) concentrating on brackish and freshwater marshes. Its goal is to assemble the knowledge needed to manage Mediterranean wetlands in ways which maintain their biological diversity, especially the avifauna. The programme includes research projects on: - avian ecology and management of bird populations, with special emphasis on herons (Ardeidae) and flamingos; - the ecology and management of fish and invertebrates; - plant ecology and management; and - biogeochemistry and nutrient cycles. The Foci of Endemism of Fast Disappearing Mediterranean Freshwater Fishes This project will comprise three phases: Phase 1: A census and an evaluation of the systematics of the endemic fish species within the northern Mediterranean basin with the production of a document which will be used as a reference work for future research and conservation action on these endemic fishes. Phase 2: To undertake standardised field survey (qualitative and quantitative) for the endemic fish species which need quick action designated in phase 1. The aims are: - to define precisely the present range of these fish species and their abundance; - to assess the main characteristics of their habitat; - to evaluate the present or the potential threats; and - to evaluate the feasibility of an action plan for the conservation of these species. Phase 3: To write and implement action plans for the conservation of these endemic fish species. Phase 1 The first phase of the project has been further outlined as follows: 1. Census of the endemic fish species within the northern Mediterranean basin. a) In each country a review will be written. This will include species as well as subspecies and already extinct species. b) A questionnaire on each endemic fish species will be completed in order to get a general assessment of this group of fish in the northern Mediterranean region. 2. Evaluation of the systematics of these endemic species and list of the species for which disagreements exist. Many species or subspecies described in the northern Mediter- ranean wetlands remain questionable. A group of experts in the field of taxonomy will meet for two to three days and will establish a list of these species. At the same time they will discuss which tools, means and methods should be used to finalize the taxonomy of these questionable species. They will finally recommend who should carry out the study for each species and with which material. 3. How to approach endemic fish species conservation? Is the ecosystem approach better than the single species approach (recovery plan) to preserve these fishes? Is captive breeding a solution to apply for the reintroduction and/or the recovery of the threatened endemic fish species? What kind of practical measures could be taken in order to improve the status of these fish species? To identify the endemic species which need quick action to be implemented in phase 2 and 3. 4. Establishment of a data base at Tour du Valat on the endemic fish species of the Mediterranean basin. Each national collaborator will be asked to send to Tour du Valat photocopies or reprints of all the references cited concerning their endemic fish species (a translation of the title and of the summary will be required when there is none in English or French). All these documents will be deposited in the library of Tour du Valat, registered on computer and then will be available to anybody. Workshop A workshop will be held at Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat from January 28 to February 1, 1993. The title of the workshop is Endemic freshwater fishes of the northern Mediterranean basin: Status, taxonomy and Conservation and will result in a Special Issue of Biological Conservation, with A.J. Criavelli and P.S. Maitland as guest editors. The tentative agenda is as follows: Part 1: The status of endemic fish species Portugal - C. Almaca Spain - B. Elvira France - T. Changeux & D. Pont Italy - P.G. Bianco Slovenia - M. Povz Croatia - M. Mrakovcic Montenegro - D. Maric Albania - A. Flloko & N. Rakaj Greece - P.S. Economidis Turkey - S. Balik Part 2: The systematics of northern Mediterranean endemic fish species. Why so many endemic fish species can be found in the Mediterranean region? - A. Wheeler (U.K.) Speciation on the genus Barbus in the north Mediterranean basin: recent advances from biochemical genetics. - P. Berrebi (France) Monogenean host specificity: as a biological and taxonomic indicator for fish. - A. Lambert (France) & S. El Gharbi (Morocco) How to solve taxonomic problems of endemic freshwater fishes of the Mediterranean region? - P. Berrebi (France), I. Doadrio (Spain) & B. Elvira (Spain) Part 3: The conservation of endemic fish species The conservation of fish: past and present experience - P.S. Maitland (U.K.) Conservation of freshwater fishes of California, a Mediterranean type region: a review - P.B. Moyle (U.S.A.) Legal aspects of the conservation of fish in the northern Mediter- ranean region. - S. Biber (Switzerland) Are introduced fish a threat for freshwater endemic fish species in northern Mediterranean basin? - A.J. Crivelli (France) Is captive breeding an effective solution for the preservation of endemic fish species? - J.-C. Philippart (Belgium) Translocation as a tool in conserving imperiled fishes: experiences in southwestern United States. - W.L. Minckley (U.S.A.) Freshwater endemic fish conservation for the future in the Mediterranean region. Contact: Alain J. Crivelli, Scientific Director, Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat, Le Sambuc, 13200 Arles, France. Tel: 90-97-21- 75. Fax: 90-97-20-19. 06/08/93 ag508 <13> ACN AT COLUMBUS by Dennis Hough The ACN, along with other hobbyists and professional aquarists and researchers, met in Columbus, Ohio, October 30 - November 2, 1992. The "Conference on Conservation Genetics and Evolutionary Ecology, a Case Study of Cichlid Fauna of Lake Victoria", asked that most important question: What can be done to save our fishes? The international symposium was the joint effort of Ohio State University and the Columbus Zoological Gardens, with invaluable support from aquarium and other companies, the federal government, institutions, and many people just like you --- concerned citizens. All this work and support brought together some of the biggest names in fish conservation: Chris Andrews, Chair of the IUCN Freshwater Fish Specialist Group; Russ McAndrews, New England Aquarium; Paul Loiselle, New York Aquarium; Les Kaufman, and many other individuals that space doesn't allow to note. Aquatic Conservation Network's Rob Huntley and Dennis Hough were in attendance representing your organization. For the ACN, the conference was especially gratifying. This gathering of world leaders in fish conservation gave its "imprimatur" for ACN in particular, and hobbyists' involvement in general. There has been a growing belief on the part of research scientists and professional aquarists that they cannot do the job alone. At this conference it was recognized that if fish species are to survive in any appreciable numbers, hobbyists and the general public will have to get involved in meaningful ways. The scientists recognize this fact but they also recognize that close scrutiny and monitoring is a must. Which is what the ACN, ultimately, is all about. * * * Doug Warmolts, one of the conference organizers, explained that the Columbus Zoo Aquarium is an active partner in the Lake Victoria Species Survival Plan (VSSP). In 1989, the Aquarium received its first shipment of endemic mouth brooders. To date, over a dozen species have been successfully spawned and raised. The Aquarium is now involved in developing a "how to" manual on successful husbandry of fish species, including genetic diversity. For the hobbyists who may not be aware, Lake Victoria is a dying lake. Along with the dying lake are the disappearing haplochromine species, probably 90% of the 300+ hap cichlids are gone or threatened. Tys Goldschmidt of the Zoologisch laboratorium, Leiden, the Netherlands, said it best: "The main cause of this large extinction event is predation by Nile perch (_Lates niloticus_), an introduced predator." With cichlids in retreat, most extraordinary changes have occurred on the lake. Speakers dwelt on the fact that with the demise of the haplochromines, the ecological system is imbalanced. So besides the beautiful aquarium-size fishes being obliterated, strange things are occurring in the lake itself. Scientists explained that the missing haps no longer devour mosquito and fly larvae, prawns and benthic organisms. This has resulted in incredible, periodic swarms of flies and gigantic algae blooms and vegetation growth in the lake. Even more discouraging are the anaerobic conditions throughout parts of the lake. Speakers such as Chris Andrews of the National Aquarium in Baltimore, in his capacity as a leader in the IUCN Freshwater Fish Specialist Group, talked on the status of captive breeding programs and their role in fish conservation. First, he made plain the gravity of fish species decline --- fully 90% of Lake Victoria's 350 fish species are threatened; California finds 57% of its 113 natives are in serious condition; 50% of European fishes are threatened; Belgium may lose up to 75% of its native fishes. The list goes on and on, but the point is made clear: nowhere in the world are fishes safe from the threat of extinction. Dr. Andrews includes alterations to the natural environment as a main culprit --- development for the human species is usually habitat destruction for fish, pollution from agriculture chemical runoffs, and on the industrial side, factory waste. The "discrete" acid rain, dams that block migration or flood the natural streams, all contribute to habitat degeneration or outright destruction. The introduction of alien species has had a devastating effect, alongside over-exploitation by man. Over-exploitation versus subsistence fishing was discussed. Subsistence fishing has been around for a very long time, but its impact was minimal on wild fish populations. Man and fish had learned to live in harmony. However, the rise of mechanized fishing techniques in the 1950's and 1960's saw the dramatic collapse of fish stock (e.g. Chilean and Peruvian anchoveta). Dr. Andrews says that while many aquarium fishes are now stock bred and raised, significant other freshwater and nearly all marine fishes are wild- caught. The decline in these wild fishes is being noticed with calls for national and international controls if not outright bans! Animal Rights We were treated to the ethical evaluation of what fish conservationists are doing. Professor Gary Varner of Texas A&M's Center for Biotechnology Policy and Ethics questioned the ethics of captive breeding. The professor seemed to distinguish between "animal rights" which fish probably do not have, to "animal welfare". Animal rights don't apply to fish because they lack desires of the kind which would qualify them for moral rights, hence "animal rights". It is Professor Varner's belief and others believe that in order for an animal to have "rights", it must show that it has "desires". To show "desires", an animal must be capable of consciously aiming at a goal and "adjusting its behaviour in ways calculated to achieve that goal." Most scientists would say that fish are incapable of this behaviour. That is not to say that "animal welfare" must not be taken into account. Fish can "suffer". Therefore, their "welfare" must be a factor in captive breeding. Fish need to be "handled with care" and pain should be kept to a minimum. Les Kaufman says that we should comply with the letter of animal welfare legislation even if doing so was "pain". "Because doing so expresses compassion for individual animals and legitimizes captive breeding in the eyes of the public." The Africans A major theme of the conference was heretofore in the background. What is the "African" role in preserving Lake Victorian fishes. After all, whose fishes are they? Richard Ogutu-Ohwayo of the Uganda Freshwater Fisheries Research Organization, and others questioned the North American and European captive breeding programs. What effect is the difference in temperate and the tropical environments, such as light, temperature, water chemistry, pH and food, on "arked" fishes? Will not "genetic drift" and/or inbreeding take place? Can fish species survive reintroduction when they are distinct from their ancestors of the lake and therefore not able to fend for themselves in the wild? Mr. Ogutu-Ohwayo strongly believes that fish "arking", in smaller, set-aside lakes, near Lake Victoria, is infinitely more preferable than "arking" in European and North American aquariums. Heiko Bleher, fish man, writer, publisher, and general gadfly (at least at this conference), heartily disagreed with that approach. Citing the dismal aquatic conservation approaches to date, plus the incredible population pressures now and in the future, the "undeveloped world cannot be relied upon." The turbulent nature of those parts of the world will never allow their governments to sustain fish conservation. "People have to eat ... and in those countries, populations are exploding ... governments have to respond and not necessarily ... for the betterment of the endangered species, as we have all seen." Captive Breeding So what are we to do? Despite the various points of view presented at the conference, there is only one working solution at present. Captive breeding programs in North America and Europe, are saving fish species. Yes, threatened and extinct in-the-wild fishes are being saved, but on a minuscule scale compared to the vast numbers disappearing. And, they are dying out in mass throughout the third world (and the developed) with no full-scale habitat conservation programs working as of yet. There was some discussion at the conference on freezing the sperm and embryo, as with warm blooded vertebrates. The technology is just not here. While fish sperm can be kept with some difficulty, eggs are almost impossible to cryogenically keep. Our only hope, so far, is a proactive conservation plan that includes thwarting destructive development (where possible), habitat rehabilitation (when and if ever it gets to that point) and of course, fish "arking". As we have seen from this conference, fish "arking" is the very real difference between extinction and life for some species of fish right now. Aquatic Conservation Network "Allowing for the behavioral requirements of individual species, the most significant obstacle to gene pool maintenance is networking." This is where the ACN has come in. We have our challenge before us. The ACN's business meeting, scheduled between night sessions, was a step in getting things moving from a "wet" perspective. A "master plan" was bantered about, and there were discussions on how to secure short and long term funding and endorsements for captive breeding by serious hobbyists and organizations. Breeding programs were, of course, high on every ones' minds. Paul Loiselle threw out the idea of Madagascar fishes as one group of fishes needing rescue before extinction. Out of such discussions, ACN's Madagascar Project Circular No. 1 is now being prepared and distributed to persons with a recognized involvement in research and conservation of Madagascar freshwater fishes. Other suggestions were thrown out along the lines of: - a memorandum of understanding for private individuals participating in sanctioned captive breeding programs for threatened endangered fishes; - fund raising to help on-site initiatives; - ACN advertised plastic-bags to be distributed by participating and supporting stores; - hobbyist participation in such research as fecundity, inbreeding and hybridization studies. New members signed up of the most valuable kind: Volunteers! An entire fish club stepped forward. The president has offered the resources of this active club towards the preservation of endangered species. Reintroduction The subject is on everyone's minds, including attendees of the conference. "Can the fish ever 'debark from the ark'?" asks Paul Loiselle. The obvious question is whether the original environment has been cleaned-up sufficiently for a species? The not so obvious questions still remain. Research also shows that constant monitoring of a reintroduced species is necessary when reintroduction has occurred. Often replenishment stock from the aquarium are needed to offset disasters. Then, too, the tendency for aquarium fish to evolve over the generations into "domesticated" fishes must be checked. Time, of course, will judge if the attendees at the conference are on the right tract. Perhaps the only thing that can be done to ensure that at least some of the world's unique fish species survive in our grandchildren's time is to follow the recommendations of the fish species survival program. Participation in that program is, of course, a big part of what the ACN is all about. Dennis Hough is a Director of the Aquatic Conservation Network and can be contacted at 3626 Glenwood Springs Dr., Kingwood, Texas 77345 U.S.A. Tel: (713) 360-9549; Fax: (713) 360-0855. 06/08/93 ag508 <14> DESERT FISHES COUNCIL by Roger W. Langton The 24th annual meeting of the Desert Fishes Council was held November 18-21 at Mesa, Arizona. The purpose of the organization is to work to safeguard the species and habitats of desert fishes in the United States and Mexico. There were 270 persons in attendance who could choose from 81 presentations ranging from agency reports to technical studies. Of interest to ACN members was a resolution written by Rob Huntley which asked that the DFC recognize, in principle, the use of amateur aquarists together with professionals in efforts to conserve aquatic life. The resolution sparked a heated debate. A few of the professionals had concerns about how responsible aquarists would be and what their motives were for wanting to get involved. Despite strong support from Dr. Paul Loiselle, Roger Langton, Al Morales and other aquarists, the resolution was tabled until next year when the Council meets in Monterrey, Mexico. Dr. Salvador Contreras from the University of Nuevo Leon, Monter- rey, Mexico, gave and interesting update on the status of ecology in Mexico. The government recently passed a Biodiversity Act which states that "all people are responsible for biodiversity." Recently, President Salinas has said, "Ecology is as important as the economy." These are encouraging signs and it is hoped that this awareness will become part of the consciousness of the Mexican people. Of interest to killifish aquarists were reports on the various habitats from the genus _Cyprinodon_ and _Crenichthys_. The well known Devil's Hole pupfish, _Cyprinodon diabolis_, is having problems again due to seismic events that occurred on June 28 and 29, 1992. The water level dropped to a dangerous level and some of the feeding and breeding rock shelves were broken. Since then the water level has risen and appears to be stable. These events demonstrate the vulnerability of this fragile habitat at Ash Meadows. The population of _Crenichthys baileyi baileyi_ continues to be depressed due to the presence of large mouth bass. Efforts are being made to remove the bass. A presentation by D.A. Young informed the audience that _Cyprinodon elegans_ and _Gambusia nobilis_, both from Phantom Spring, Texas, are in serious danger of becoming extinct. He discussed the construction of a refugium channel at Phantom Springs as an effort to save the two species. Other fishes are in trouble due to the introduction of exotics and loss of habitat. A worthwhile project sponsored by the Bureau of Land Management, the Department of Agriculture's Forest Service and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation goes by the slogan, "Bring Back the Natives". Their hope is to "restore entire riverine systems and their native species". This is an ambitious program that could do much to secure the existence of native species for future gener- ations. Many fishes of the Verde, Green and Colorado Rivers were discussed such as the razorback sucker, _Xyrauchen texanus_, Colorado squafish, _Ptychocheilus lucius_, and the endangered humpback chub, _Gila cypha_. These fishes have become threatened by dam projects, mining and other human activities. The DFC has a good record in working to save the desert fishes of the United States and Mexico. Their efforts began early and have resulted in many native species being saved from extinction. the members are clearly dedicated to their task. For information concerning the DFC contact E.P. Pister, Executive Secretary, Desert Fishes Council, 407 West Lane, Bishop, CA 93514. Tel: (619) 872-1171. Roger W. Langton can be contacted at 556 W. Cedar Place, Louis- ville, CO 80027, U.S.A. PROPOSED RESOLUTION - SEPTEMBER 11, 1992 FOR CONSIDERATION BY THE DESERT FISHES COUNCIL RELATIVE TO PROFESSIONAL/NON-PROFESSIONAL COOPERATION IN AQUATIC CONSERVATION WHEREAS the professional, scientific resources available for the conservation and captive breeding of aquatic organisms are sufficient to respond to only a limited number of aquatic biodiversity issues; and WHEREAS there is an apparent shift towards financial support of conservation work in the field, leaving captive breeding initiatives insufficiently funded; and WHEREAS under proper guidance, non-professional aquarists (amateurs and hobby industry) could become a significant adjunct to existing conservation efforts; and WHEREAS there is a requirement for improved communication between professional and non-professional aquarist activities; and WHEREAS the Aquatic Conservation Network has established itself as a non-profit corporation representing aquarists who are dedicated to the preservation of aquatic life; now therefore be it RESOLVED that the Desert Fishes Council encourages the Aquatic Conservation Network to further enhance the exchange of information pertaining to threatened aquatic organisms and their habitats among professional and non-pro- fessional aquarists and fisheries specialists; and be it further RESOLVED that the Desert Fishes Council supports in principle the initiatives of the Aquatic Conservation Network to advance non-professional aquarist participation in professionally guided programs in aquatic conservation. *********** ** Following the meeting of the Desert Fishes Council, the following "Statement of Principles" was submitted to the Desert Fishes Council to be included in the proceedings in order to provide additional information to DFC members about the ACN. Also, the ACN has been invited to provide an information packet with the DFC mailing of these proceedings. ** Aquatic Conservation Network STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLES To be included with the proposed resolution in the Proceedings of the 1992, Desert Fishes Council Symposium. The Aquatic Conservation Network (ACN) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to conserving and preserving aquatic life, with particu- lar emphasis on freshwater fish species survival. The organization provides a unique communications linkage between scientific, industry and amateur initiatives and publishes a quarterly bulletin "Aquatic Survival". In doing so, the ACN provides a single forum through which amateur and professional aquarists can share information and expertise, and where concerns regarding amateur and industry programs can be identified and addressed. Further, the ACN offers increased opportunity for the development of joint ventures between private individuals and the scientific community. By working closely with technical and legal advisors, the ACN aims to develop professionally sanctioned programs; foster appropriate participation by private individuals; establish codes of appropri- ate behaviour; and make every effort to ensure that participating members operate in compliance with national and other regulatory processes and legal restrictions. The ACN is seeking to establish affiliations and consultative processes with scientific, industry and amateur groups in order to successfully carry out this mandate. 06/08/93 ag508 <15> CAPTIVE BREEDING GUIDELINES COMMITTEE by Rob Huntley An ACN committee has been established to develop guidelines and rules of compliance for captive breeding initiatives. The group currently consists of Russ McAndrews, Phil Sponenberg, Mark Rosenqvist, Roger Langton and myself. Roger Langton is chairing the group. Russ has been working at the New England Aquarium in Boston with Les Kaufman and is involved with the Lake Victoria Captive Breeding Specialist Group. He is also the Secretary of the American Cichlid Association as well as the ACA's Species Maintenance Chairperson. Phil is a veterinary pathologist at Virginia Tech. and is also the technical chairperson for the American Minor Breeds Conservancy - an organization devoted to conserving rare livestock breeds and plant cultivars. With that group he has been recently involved with guidelines development (a "cookbook" as he calls it) which will make him a valuable resource in our effort. His "cookbook" should be finalized soon and we will use it as a resource. Phil is also an aquarist. Mark is an aquaculture technician with Aquatic Research Organisms in New Hampshire, growing aquatic organisms for environmental testing and research. Roger is on the Board of Trustees with the AKA and is the author of the article "Breeding Fish for Conservation" in the September issue of Aquatic Survival. Contact: Roger Langton, 556 W. Cedar Place, Louisville CO 80027, U.S.A. Tel: (303) 673-0673. 06/08/93 ag508 <16> New Journal - "Aquatic Conservation - Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems" Announcement from John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Aquatic Conservation is an international journal dedicated to publishing original papers that relate specifically to freshwater, brackish or marine habitats and encouraging work that spans these ecosystems. This journal will provide a forum in which all aspects of conservation of aquatic biological resources can be presented and discussed, enabling greater cooperation and efficiency in solving problems in aquatic resource conservation. The publication of both practical studies in conservation as well as theoretical consideration of the underlying principles will be encouraged. Contributions will be accepted from as wide a geographical range as possible to ensure a broad representation of conservation issues in both developed and developing countries. the journal also publishes short communications, review articles, discussions and book reviews. A subscription to this quarterly journal costs US$160.00 (^Ü80.00 in the U.K.) For further details contact the Journals Administration Department, John Wiley & Sons Ltd., Baffins Lane, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1US, England, Fax: (0243) 775878. Alternatively, contact John Wiley & Sons Inc., 605 third Avenue, New York, NY 10158, U.S.A. 06/08/93 ag508 <17> MADAGASCAR PROJECT: TOWARDS AN ACN CAPTIVE BREEDING PROGRAM by Rob Huntley The ACN is now considering what direction to go in terms of a "pilot" captive breeding program. Some ACN members have provided information about their fish breeding skills and interests and it is obvious that there is a diverse range of specializations. To limit our initial focus to one family of fishes would therefore cater to only a small subset of members. Thus, we intend to approach this first project in terms of a geographic area rather than a family of fishes. To the best of our knowledge, Madagascar freshwater fishes represent an ideal group to study: 1. Madagascar offers a cross section of fish families at risk, which should cater to the interest of a broader group of ACN members; 2. The ACN could provide additional capability and resources towards existing scientific efforts; and 3. No amateur study and maintenance group is known to exist for Madagascar freshwater fishes. Few opportunities appear to exist whereby amateurs can play a significant role in the conservation of endemic fishes of Madagascar. Dr. Paul Loiselle informally suggested the Madagascar focus during the symposium held recently in Columbus, Ohio. Since then he has provided a list of "Possible Candidates for a Malagasy Freshwater Fish Captive Breeding Program" (see adjacent box). The following are the short term objectives of this program: - establish a list, and a brief description of activities, of those persons already involved with Madagascar freshwater fishes (scientific, amateur or otherwise); - develop a bibliographic listing on this subject (scientific and/or hobby literature), and a collection of available reprints; - identify research needs and priorities; and - coordinate a team of persons willing to participate in the design, development and administration of the captive breeding program. As a starting point, a "Madagascar Project Circular" has been initiated which is being mailed in early January, 1993 to persons which we understand to have a specific interest and/or research activity associated with the conservation of Madagascar freshwater fishes. These people are being asked to fill out a short question- naire to provide background information about themselves and their work or interest in this field. It is hoped that this first step will foster improved information flow and enable the development of "Terms of Reference" for a captive breeding initiative involving interested ACN members. Persons already actively involved with Madagascar freshwater fishes in some capacity should contact the ACN as soon as possible. Also, anyone able to provide additional information (such as names of contacts, sources of information, etc.) should also get in touch. Progress reports will appear in future issues of _Aquatic Survival_. Contact: Rob Huntley, Aquatic Conservation Network, 540 Roosevelt Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K2A 1Z8. Tel: (613) 729-4670; Fax: (613) 729-5613; CompuServe: 71022,3537; Internet: rob@pinetree.org POSSIBLE CANDIDATES FOR A MALAGASY FRESHWATER FISH CAPTIVE BREEDING PROGRAM Contributed by Dr. Paul V. Loiselle Catfishes _Ancharius fuscus_ (Steindachner 1880) _Ancharius brevibarbis_ (Boulenger 1911) Sleeper Gobies _Ratsirakia legendrei_ (Pellegrin 1919) _Hypseleotris tohizonae_ (Steindachner 1881) Glass Perches _Ambassis fontoynoti_ (Pellegrin 1932) Silversides _Teramulus waterloti_ (Pellegrin 1932) _Teramulus keineri_ (Smith 1965) Malagasy Rainbowfishes _Bedotia madagascarensis_ (Regan 1903) _Bedotia geayi_ (Pellegrin 1907)* _Bedotia longianalis_ (Pellegrin 1914) _Bedotia tricolor_ (Pellegrin 1932) _Rheocles alaotrensis_ (Pellegrin 1914) Killifishes _Pantanodon madagascarensis_ (Arnoult 1963) _Pachypanchax omalonotus_ (Dumeril 1861)* _Pachypanchax sakaramyi_ (Holly 1928) Cichlids _Paratilapia polleni_ (Bleeker 1868)* _Ptychochromis oligoacanthus_ (Bleeker 1868)* _Ptychochromoides sp._ nov. _Oxylapia polli_ (Keiner and Mauge 1966) _Paretroplus dami_ (Bleeker 1878) _Paretroplus polyactis_ (Bleeker 1878) _Paretroplus petiti_ (Pellegrin 1929) _Paretroplus keineri_ (Arnoult 1960)* _Paretroplus maculatus_ (Keiner and Mauge 1966) *indicates species presently under culture (in the U.S. or Europe) 06/08/93 ag508 <18> ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Thanks to the following publications for their support: - Tropical Fish Hobbyist Magazine (TFH) for the article in the December, 1992 issue (p. 171); - Marion Baxter for the write-up about the ACN in ICHTHOS (Decem- ber, 1992 issue - p.17-18), Newsletter of the Friends of the J.L.B. Smith Institute of Ichthyology (South Africa); Thanks are also due to the people who participated as panel members at the ACN moderated panel session at the Columbus symposium. The session was titled "Role of the Aquarium Industry and the Non- Scientist in the Conservation of Genetic Resources of Endangered Fish Species" and featured presentations by Rob Huntley and Bruce Gebhardt. The panel discussion which followed was moderated by Rob Huntley and included Chris Andrews, Bruce Gebhardt, Tim Hovanec, Paul Loiselle, Russ McAndrews, and Chuck Rambo. 06/08/93 ag508 <19> AQUATIC CONSERVATION NETWORK NEW MEMBERS Devin M. Bartley Fisheries Resources Officer FIRI, FAO Viale delle Terme di Caracalla Rome 00100 Italy Craig S. Berg Milwaukee County Zoo 3741 E. Van Norman Ave. Cudahy Wisconsin 53110-1120 U.S.A. James & Maureen Brockson and Family 2040 South 67th Street Philadelphia PA 19142-1625 U.S.A. James Brockson President Delaware County Aquarium Society P.O. Box 521 Ridley Park Pennsylvania 19078 U.S.A. Ed Butler 1321 Grand Ave. Baldwin NY 11510 U.S.A. Cathy Checora Aquarium Club of Edmonton 9650-100 A Street Edmonton Alberta T5K 0V8 Canada Dr. Salvador Contreras-Balderas Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon Facultad de Ciencas Biologicas Apartado Postal #504 San Nicolas de los Garza Nuevo Leon 6645 Mexico Gregory Cunningham ecoActivity, Inc. P.O. Box 32 Schley Virginia 23154 U.S.A. Caroline Estes President Capitol Aquarium Society 1100 Payne Ave. Austin Texas 78757 U.S.A. Lester D. Geissel Lake Victoria Society 940 Dexter Trail Mason Michigan 48854 U.S.A. Michael R. Hellweg President Missouri Aquarium Society, Inc. 918 Winged Foot Dr., #210 O'Fallon MO 63366 U.S.A. Jeffrey Hildebrand Greater Cincinnati Aquarium Society 3202 Latonia Ave. Latonia KY 41015 U.S.A. Karen Horrocks Secretary North West Cichlid Group 70 Morton Street Middleton Manchester M24 3AY England Julian Hynes Hynes & Associates International 193 Concord Avenue Toronto Ontario M6H 2P2 Canada Bob Keddell Patuxent Valley Middle School 9151 Vollmerhausen Road Jessup MD 20794 U.S.A. David Koran Fundulus Study Group P.O. Box 3864 Frederick MD 21705-3864 U.S.A. Dr. Irv Kornfield Dept. of Zoology University of Maine 215 Murray Hall Orono ME 04469-5751 U.S.A. John Farrell Kuhns AquaScience Research Group, Inc. 1100 Gentry Street North Kansas City Missouri 64116 U.S.A. Benny B. Larsen Dansk Akvarie Union "Akvariebladet" Egernets Kvarter 32 DK-2750 Ballerup Denmark John Mangan 9770 Oleander Avenue Vienna Virginia 22181 U.S.A. Steve Marple 1360 Indian Gap Road Frankfort KY 40601 U.S.A. Dr. Rosemary H. McConnell Streatwick, Streat near Hassocks Sussex BN6 8RT England John McLain San Antonio Zoological Society Aquarium 3903 North St. Mary's St. San Antonio TX 78212 U.S.A. Douglas A. Nason 3606 Veteran Ave. Los Angeles CA 90034 U.S.A. Thuan Nguyen P.O. Box 641-332 San Jose CA 95164-1332 U.S.A. Fred Olynyk 113 Werrell Crescent Winnipeg Manitoba R2K 3Y2 Canada Gordon Orlikow 3-1039 Cedar Glen Mississauga Ontario L5C 3A7 Canada Rick Preuss President Lake Victoria Society c/o Preuss Animal House 1651 Haslett Road Haslett Michigan 48840 U.S.A. Daniel Richardson Federation of American Aquarium Societie 4829 Leacock Rd. Edinboro PA 16412 U.S.A. William H. Smith "Special Cichlids" 113 Netherfield Rd. Wilmington DE 19804 U.S.A. Dean Staff 102 Cedarock Dr. Kanata Ontario K2M 2H5 Canada David Stephon Rainbowfish Study Group 3185 Thornapple Dr. Lancaster PA 17601 U.S.A. Alex H. Townsend Vice President Potomac Valley Aquarium Society 3720 King Arthur Rd. Annandale Virginia 22003 U.S.A. James Wells 944 W. Oakridge Ferndale MI 48220 U.S.A. Matthew Winston University of Oklahoma Department of Zoology Norman Oklahoma 73019 U.S.A. Peter Wollenberg 2911-104 Street Edmonton Alberta T6J 4C7 Canada *********** Thank-you to the following new members who made financial contributions in addition to annual fees: Ed Butler, Gregory Cunningham and Roger Langton Membership applications can be sent directly to Sally Van Camp, 923 Wadsworth St., Syracuse, New York 13208, U.S.A. or to the Aquatic Conservation Network, 540 Roosevelt Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario K2A 1Z8, Canada. The annual membership fee is $25 (Canadian or U.S. currency). *********** End of Volume 1, Number 4 - Aquatic Survival