Crucians (Carassius Carassius): Biology, Ecology, Angling and Culture

The crucian is a freshwater fish species that has seen a renaissance of interest in angling and conservation communities in Britain. Despite its wide northern European and western Asian distribution, the species is under threat due to multiple causes including the decimation of the small pond habitats upon which it depends. As a small pond specialist, the crucian serves a particularly important role as a charismatic focus encouraging support for the protection and restoration of this highly threatened and much-reduced habitat type and the diversity of other species that it supports.

Crucians (Carassius carassius): Biology, Ecology, Angling and Culture takes a comprehensive approach, covering:

• Biology and ecology, including taxonomy
• Angling, including location, baits, methods, and former and current record fish
• Cultural connections, including etymology, artwork and culinary aspects of the fish

These sections are supported by a bibliography and beautiful colour imagery. The bookoffers a fascinating read for conservationists, anglers, freshwater biologists and those with interest in the natural world.

Professor Mark Everard is a Visiting Professor at Bournemouth University, as well as Associate Professor of Ecosystem Services at the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol). He also works as a consultant, broadcaster and author. Mark is Vice-President of the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES), a Fellow of the Linnean Society, an Angling Trust Ambassador, and a science advisor to WildFish (formerly Salmon & Trout Conservation UK), Tiger Watch (India), Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and a range of other bodies. Mark is well-known in angling circles as a regular contributor to magazines, radio and television and as an author of numerous books on fish and fishing. Mark is also a scientist with a global profile for his research, advocacy and communication on ecosystem management, nature conservation and sustainable development. Mark has published 42 books as 140 peer-reviewed scientific papers as well as frequent magazine, TV and radio contributions. Mark Everard is often referred to as Dr Redfin in the angling press for his special passion for roach. For more about Mark and his work, see www.markeverard.co.uk. Mark is also the designer of the ’Dr Redfin 15 Foot Float Rod’.