Angels - PageSuite

EDITORIAL
AMAZONAS
4
Dear Reader,
AMAZONAS founding editor Hans-Georg Evers
It has actually taken a lot of work to reach a point where we could present a classic genus
to a public that is interested in more than just colorful pictures accompanied by the same
old stale verbiage. Unfortunately, many classic aquarium fishes suffer from being considered
“common” beginners’ fishes and, hence, beneath the interest of advanced aquarists.
But the freshwater angelfishes in the genus Pterophyllum are quite a special genus of cichlids.
With just three recognized species, the group is easy to summarize, but also includes
both easy-to-keep “bread and butter” fishes, with numerous exotic strains and cultivated
forms, and rare wild forms that are often very difficult and time-consuming to keep and
breed.
We want to use this issue to spread the word among aquarists who have been working
extensively with angelfishes for many years and know what they are doing. That may
sound highly contradictory, but it won’t deter us from our goal of introducing these
majestic fishes to our readers. We have deliberately placed the emphasis on the wild forms,
in order to increase awareness of these beautiful fishes. In the past there have been real
battles of opinion in certain circles, especially regarding the majestic Altum. So don’t be
surprised if some statements in the individual articles appear somewhat contradictory.
One thing is crystal clear, however. Angels are gorgeous fishes for beginners and experts
alike. I am quite sure that after reading our cover feature you will pay more attention the
next time you find yourself standing in front of a tank of angelfishes.
We also have a couple of real stunners in this issue. The very attractive Paska’s Blue-
Eye has been tracked down and is being bred—and a new star in the mini-fish heavens has
found its way into the aquarium. We take you with us for a look inside the fishrooms of
Walter Hilgner, a truly passionate breeder of many desirable fish species and a former hobbyist
who admits to losing the battle with one of his aquarium “addictions.” And readers
of our English edition will find an enlightening piece by Ian Fuller on the mystery of sudden
death and the treatment of other maladies peculiar to Corydoradinae catfishes.
I wish you happy reading and continued enjoyment of the aquarium hobby!