[.ca] Dk Handbooks Aquarium Fish (ISBN 1564582930)

Beautiful photos, not enough info:
This is a handy little guidebook that features very high-quality photographs (it's another DK book) of just about every aquarium fish you are likely to encounter. It is useful primarily for those looking to distinguish their Five-Banded Barbs from their Checker Barbs or their Madagascar Rainbowfish from their Siamese Tigerfish - i.e. it is a book for fish nerds. I do recommend this book for the enthusiast and the beginner alike, however the beginner should not rely on this book alone as it does not provide nearly enough information on setting up the aquarium, choosing compatible fishes, and trouble-shooting. My main criticism is that while the design and layout of the book, and the large, clear color photos of the fish, makes it a pleasure to read, it provides only very basic information about each fish. For some unknown reason, the critically important subject of water chemistry and temperature is practically ignored. I also find it disturbing that the author does not really indicate which fishes are good for the beginner, and which are more fragile, and suitable only for more advanced aquarists. This is an unfortunate exclusion given the fact that so many fish languish and die in tanks owned by inexperienced people who lack the knowledge to properly choose and care for them. If you're looking for information you can really use, there is not much point in learning to distinguish between 500 different varieties of fishes, but not knowing which of those fishes you would be most likely to be able to keep successfully (taking into account such factors as your level of skill/experience, local water chemistry, the size of the tank etc.). Still, it's worth a look.

Pretty good.:
I read this book and found it to be pretty worthwhile. It contains good information, but I don't think that it's completely thorough, though. What I like the most about this guide are the very good photographs that are in full color. You can't beat them. Dorling Kindersley always does an impressive job with the photos in all of their books that I have. One thing about this guide that I noticed is that it fails to discuss the nitrogen cycle. That's a very important subject that should have been included. Some of the various topics that are discussed are choosing your fish, aquarium equipment, and aquascaping. Also, information on several species of fish is included. This guide has some good basic information. It really just scratches the surface, though. I consider it to be a good reference guide, but not a definitive one. Worth a read.

I LOVED IT!:
While browsing through a bookstore one day, I happened to notice the beautiful pictures on the front of this book. It had a catchy title because it sounded so simple. I picked it up, flipped through, and was hooked! I knew I would LOVE this book. I took it home, read it in one afternoon, and picked up TONS of new hints and tips. The book covers everything from general advice on tanks and equipment to info on your favorite aquarium fish. This is a very exciting book, and a must-have for beginners. Complete with lots of pictures, I'd suggest this book to anyone new to the hobby!

Great for the price.:
I thought that this book had some great information for the new aquarium owner. The pictures were also great. However, if you know a little about aquariums, don't get this book thinking you'll learn many new things. The pictures and the explanations about types of fish were great but not enough fish were covered.

Good Refference:
This is a good quick reference guide & has has a good collection of species & varieties. You couldn't raise any fish from the information in this book - but it certainly makes choosing those right for you aquarium a little easier.