Publisher's Synopsis
Philip's Guide to Freshwater Fish of Britain and Europe is an easy-to-use rapid identification guide to every fish species in Europe.The fresh waters of Britain and Europe support more than 300 species - mostly native, some introduced - representing 36 families. The fish themselves are very diverse, ranging from great sturgeons, salmon, and sunfish to the tiny pipefish, blennies and chiclids. Between these extremes are the most commonly seen fish such as pike, roach, bream and minnow.In this comprehensive guide, illustrated keys allow the rapid identification of species: in the introductory chapter is a key to the families of fish, which will enable readers to quickly find the family to which their specimen belongs, and at the start of the chapter on each family, a detailed key identifies the exact species.Keith Linsell's 250 beautiful, full-colour species artworks are so detailed that in most cases identification can also be achieved by matching the specimen directly to the species illustration, and using the text and distribution maps for confirmation.Author Peter S. Maitland provides much more than just a concise guide to the identification of our freshwater fish. He also gives an insight into the lives of fish - their physiology, behaviour and development, their ecology, their exploitation and their conservation.Written in non-technical language, it is suitable for anyone with an interest in fish, and will be invaluable to anglers, naturalists, conservationists and freshwater biologists.Main map scale:
