| As some of you may have noticed in perusing this issue, there are some
slight changes in the appearance of the magazine. These are the result
of a very welcome development. For the past several months, Ad Konings
has been doing a wonderful — though largely behind-the-scenes — job of
updating and improving our web-site. In addition to recognizing his
contribution on the web, I’m also delighted to announce that he will play
a similar role in preparing the layout for the magazine. Through
his articles and photographs, Ad has always been one of Cichlid News’ strongest
supporters, and now we’re happy to have his regular participation in the
day-to-day operations of the magazine.
Now on to this issue. First, in continuing with his yearlong tour
of top dive-spots in Lake Malawi, the aforementioned Ad Konings takes us
to Thumbi West Island and environs within Lake Malawi National Park.
An idyllic vacation spot that I’ve had the good fortune to visit myself,
Thumbi West offers an unusual mix — due to the activities of early fish
collectors — of both native and introduced cichlids, resulting in what
can truly be described as an outdoor aquarium. The remainder of the
issue should more than satisfy the appetite of any neotropical buff.
First, another installment on Crenicichla by Vinny Kutty, this time
on the giant pikes of the C. lugubris-group. Though demanding,
these fishes — as witnessed by the photographs — can be truly spectacular.
Also, Duncan Pears, a British forestry officer stationed in Guyana, takes
us off the beaten path in search of one of those rarities that many of
us have barely heard of let alone even seen, the so-called Black Patwa,
Mazarunia
mazarunii. Finally, in an engrossing review, Willem Heijns traces
the history surrounding the usage of the generic name Cichlasoma
— well-known to all of us — leading up to a summary of the names of sub-groupings
resulting from its break-up currently in use in the hobby. It’s time
we all faced it: we can’t just keep using Cichlasoma in quotes
for ever!
Our next issue will mark the start of our tenth year of publication,
so watch for special articles and promotions to celebrate that milestone.
And until then, enjoy your cichlids.
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