This book is without question the most comprehensive and useful book about discus fishes ever published anywhere. The information provided in the captions is a masterful blend of the scientific and the purely practical, with coverage of natural history and taxonomy complementing the large body of down-to-earth advice from world-renowned experts Dr.Axelrod and Degen about selection, care and feeding, breeding Discus and keeping them in good health. Dr. Burgess's special text section dealing with the current status of Discus systematics is completely authoritative and up to date. There are many reasons for the great popularity of the discusfishes of the genus Symphysodon. Discus are undeniably colorful and gracefully attractive, beautiful to watch even in unadomed aquaria, Discus are the center of attraction wherever they're displayed. In addition, their breeding habits are fascinating to observe, and the successful raising of Discus fry is one of the most challenging and rewarding activities provided by the aquarium hobby. The beautiful color photos that grace the pages of The Atlas of Discus of the World go a long way toward explaining the romance that has sprung up between the Discus fishes and their millions of admirers around the world. Nothing else has ever captured the charm of the Discus to the same degree; the hold that Discus have on their dedicated fanciers simply can't be explained except through viewing the photos in this book. e photos, of course, are highly useful as well they show every one of the many different color varieties and sub-varieties recognized today, from the plain browns and greens to the brilliant turquoise and right through the royal red. Never before has such a pictorial feast been set for Discus lovers.