Aquariums: Windows to Nature

by Leighton Taylor

Traces the history of aquariums, describes the highlights of the major aquariums, and provides a directory of facilities around the world

192 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1993

Reviews

[Andrew]

Leighton Taylor has written an excellent book, showing the history of the Aquarium (first, simply the concept of having water-based life in an artificial setting, then as the public buildings that evolved from it). The book describes the evolution of philosophy, from "show it until it dies, then go get another one", to "keep it alive and get it to breed so we don't have to collect it from the wild". And shows glimpses into some of the animals displayed by an aquarium, some of the personalities involved in their construction and ongoing husbandry (one of which I used to work with - cool), and some glimpses into representative facilities around the world.

The book also boasts some fantastic photographs and illustrations, scattered throughout as a break for the eyes among and between the text.

The problem - the book is 20 years old!! Many facilities that deserve mention weren't built at the time of publication. (The aquarium I help out at, the Florida Aquarium is mentioned as "under construction".) Others have had their exhibits and philosophies evolve in that time, or been taken from public to private hands. Still others, unfortunately, have shuttered.

A very enjoyable read - FLAq buddies, I'll bring it in this weekend so y'all can browse it!