Livebearers focuses on four families of fish which contain many of the most attractive and popular species in the tropical fish hobby today, including guppies, mollies, swordtails, and platies. The families include Goodeidae (Mexican livebearers), Anablepidae (four-eyes and others), Poeciliidae (guppies and others); and Hemirhamphidae (halfbeaks). Author David Alderton explains that hobbyists have applied the term livebearer to these four families...

A delightful hiss-torical survey of cats in popular culture. Louis Wain and Beatrix Potter adored them, but Walt Disney preferred dogs; cats have been depicted in art, books and, more recently, film and TV as lovable but determined creatures. Where the dog is loving but stupid, the cat is clever but sly. Bestselling author David Alderton explores this myth and reveals just who the most famous cats are, including cartoon classics such as Top Cat, Felix,...

If you're thinking of getting a new pup, The Right Dog for You is a must-read. This easy-to-understand guide to the personalities of over 115 breeds allows you to be sure you'll choose the perfect companion. With all-round guidance on selecting a dog, this fully illustrated comprehensive breed directory - including new crossbreeds such as labradoodles - is packed full of useful information. Arranged by size, small to large, each concise entry begins...

For beginning aquatic fancier looking to start out right with fish, Freshwater Aquariums by David Alderton is the ideal primer. A vertebrate that breathe primarily by means of gills and swim by means of fins is the author's lead-in to the first chapter called "What are Fish?" Alderton builds the reader's confidence by providing solid information about what fish are anatomically speaking, how they evolved, how they breathe, how they move, where they...

"Authoritative text, crystal-clear photography, and a systematic approach make this the most comprehensive and concise pocket guide to dogs of the world. Packed with more than 1,000 full-color photographs of over 300 dog breeds, this handy reference book is designed to cut through the process of identification and help you to recognize a breed quickly and easily"--

Illustrated throughout with photographs and graphics, complementing incisive and informative text. Comprehensive overview of the history and nature of the dog, and guide to all aspects of dog care. In-depth coverage of all the main dog breeds, including information on origins, appearance, and uses.

"Understanding Your Dog will teach you everything you need to know about how to communicate with your dog! What is the difference between a bark and a growl? A whine and a whimper? What is your dog conveying to you-and, most importantly, are you listening? Understanding Your Dog has all the answers, from choosing the right breed for you to dealing with troublesome behavior such as chasing cars, jumping up, and fighting. With this essential guide,...

This is an essential reference manual for bird-keepers of all levels - from the novice looking to keep a single pet bird indoors to the seasoned breeder wishing to extend an existing aviary collection. A close look at more than 250 examples provides a fascinating insight into the coloration, characteristics, weaknesses and breeding habits of each of the major groups: waxbills, weavers, whydahs, canaries and related finches, quails and pheasants, softbills,...

Presents essential reference guide to keeping the most popular pet species and breeds, including hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, rabbits, birds, reptiles and fish, with hundreds of full color photographs.