This volume constitutes the most recent and most comprehensive
consideration of the largest family of bony fishes, the Cichlidae. This
book offers an integrated perspective of cichlid fishes ranging from
conservation of threatened species to management of cichlids as invasive
species themselves. Long-standing models of taxonomy and systematics are
subjected to the most recent applications and interpretations of
molecular evidence and multivariate analyses; and cichlid adaptive
radiations at different scales are elucidated. The incredible diversity
of endemic cichlid species in African lakes is revisited as possible
examples of sympatric speciation and as serious cases for management in
complex anthropogenic environments. Extreme hydrology and bathymetry as
driver of micro-allopatric speciation is explored in the African
riverine hotspot of diversity of the lower Congo River.
Dramatic new molecular evidence draws attention to the complex taxonomy
and systematics of Neotropical cichlids including the crater lakes of
Central America. Molecular genetics, genomics, imaging tools and field
study techniques assess the roles of natural, sexual and kin selection
in shaping cichlid traits and beyond. The complex behavioral adaptations
of cichlids are considered from a number of sub-disciplines including
sensory biology, neurobiology, development, and evolutionary ecology.
Most importantly, this volume puts forth a wealth of new
interpretations, explanatory hypotheses and proposals for practical
management and applications that will shape the future for these
remarkable fishes in nature as well as their use as models for the study
of biology.
