The tropical aquarium is a fascinating world, a complete miniature environment in which the lives and loves of countless creatures are played out before our eyes. Our increasing understanding of the natural world has fuelled our curiosity to know more about what goes on around us. In this eye-opening book, Dr Ashley Ward, an expert in fish behaviour, reveals the ties and tensions that motivate the day-to-day routines within a thriving tropical tank. The book is presented in logical sections that focus on vital aspects of aquarium life and all are seen through the eyes of the fish that call this glass box home. The opening chapter looks at learning and intelligence, with fascinating answers to such fundamental questions as 'Do fish have individual personalities?' and 'Are their memories measured only in seconds?' The sections that follow delve into predatory behaviour and how shoaling can help to unite and protect fish from possible attack. The topics of aggression and territoriality raise questions such as 'Why are some fish so aggressive and others so peaceful?' This leads to sections about reproductive strategies and mating rituals - overflowing with gritty revelations worthy of any popular newspaper. The closing chapters follow fish through their daily routines and explain how they communicate and cooperate to ensure their continued survival. These are strong themes that spawn fascinating questions and answers.