The Role of Animals of Ancient Egypt

To the ancient Egyptians, animals were created by the gods and given rights equal to that of mankind. They saw animals not as their subjects, but rather as independent beings, and treated them with respect. [A]

The Nile served as a source of food and was the most important factor to the agriculture of the region. Fish were plentiful and could be eaten roasted, boiled, salted, preserved, or simply dried in the sun. Because the Nile would flood annually, it revitalized the land with water and fertile silt, enriching the soil to grow wheat, fruits, and vegetables. Additionally, it provided thick grasses on which animals would graze.

The people of ancient Egypt were mainly pescarian, meaning they would often eat fish. The Nile supplied many types of fish, including: catfish, mullet, tilapia, sturgeon, eel, carp, and perch, which were all an important source of nourishment. Along the Nile, there were restrictions on the types of fish that could be eaten because of their connections with the gods. The Pharaoh and other priests would abstain from eating fish altogether because it was forbidden by one of their deities as a food reserved for peasants.

Bread was their main staple, made from wheat and barley. From time to time, they supplemented their diet with antelope, which they hunted. Occasionally they ate pork and goat, which were raised on farms.

The Egyptians also raised sheep, cattle, geese and ducks. These animals not only provided them with food, drink, leather and skins, but also helped with their daily lives. Oxen and cattle were used for plowing the fields, and other animals were used for trampling seeds into the soil, and eating unwanted grain.

Birds were of extreme importance to the ancient Egyptians as well. Along the Nile, the bird-life included the falcon, kite, goose, crane, heron, pigeon, ibis, vulture and owl. Numerous birds were actually kept in sacred flocks and some were elevated in status to become temple animals. From the vast collection of ancient Egyptian artwork, evidence exists of several species of birds that are now extinct.

Beekeeping began in Egypt around 2500 BC in the Fifth Dynasty. Egyptians loved honey and they would take great pains to cultivate it. They not only kept bees, but they also actively went out and searched for the honey of wild bees. They would use bee wax for embalming, offerings to the gods, medicines, makeup, and as a bonding agent. They named the honeybee after the bull-like god named Apis because they believed it had similar characteristics. (The historian Herodotus described this bull as being black, with a white diamond on its forehead and two white hairs on its tail.)

Horses were introduced much later into Egyptian society - around 1500 BC. They were a status symbol for the owners and were mainly used to carry chariots into battle and for ceremonial occasions. Horses were rarely ridden and if so, only by royalty. They were well cared for and given individual names. Donkeys were the main beasts of burden. They were used as pack animals and for carrying heavy bundles of grain from the field to the threshing floor. Female donkeys, which produced higher-protein and sweeter milk than cows, were kept as dairy animals.

Hunting was seen as a symbol of mastery over animal forces. Egyptians believed it was their role to conquer the land. Dogs, resembling greyhounds, would help them while hunting. There is evidence from the tomb paintings that the ancient Egyptians sometimes took along cheetahs they had tamed.

The hunters knew their animals well. They studied their characteristics, including their diet and mating habits. This knowledge brought about a great respect for the animals and aided them in the hunt. Oftentimes, they would hunt great cats, which were not always killed. [C] Smaller jungle mammals and wild cats, such as the cheetah, were often kept as family pets. Ramses the Great is said to have had a pet lion.

Dog, cats, monkeys, and birds were also a part of the nuclear family. So devoted were these ancient people to their pets, that upon the pet's passing, they would often carry out the same rites and rituals as they would for any other family member. Pets and sacred animals were mummified and put in special cemeteries. Animals that belonged to the Pharaoh's royal family were mummified and buried with them so they could continue in the afterlife together. The following inscription for a well-loved dog was found in a tomb dating from the 5th or 6th dynasty:

"The dog which was the guard of His Majesty. Abuwtiyuw is his name. His Majesty ordered that he be buried, that he be given a coffin from the royal treasury, fine linen in great quantity, incense. His Majesty gave perfumed ointment and [ordered] that a tomb be built for him by the gang of masons. His Majesty did this for him in order that he might be honored". [1]

For many years, animal mummies have been overlooked while research went on regarding human mummies and other treasures found in the tombs. The study of this previously neglected area of Egyptology has finally changed, thanks to the work of Dr. Salima Ikram, one of the leading experts in Egyptian funerary archaeology. Dr. Ikram is the founder and co-director of the Animal Mummy Project at the Cairo Museum. This project has shed new light on the past, revealing the techniques of mummification and the reasons for it. Regarding the latter, Dr. Ikram tells us four reasons why animals were mummified.

1.They were mummified because they were sacred.

2. They were mummified to please the animal deities (i.e. as offerings to the gods).

3. The ancient Egyptians believed that the afterlife included animals. Therefore, they wanted their pets to continue with them in the afterlife.

4. A certain number of animals were mummified in order to provide food for eternity.

These ancient tombs are time capsules filled with ancient treasures, many of which we are still deciphering and trying to understand. Some of the tomb findings have been items made of animal products, which were used in many ways. Bone was plentiful and the ancient Egyptians fashioned it into jewelry and arrowheads. Glue was made from animal hide and from sinews. Feathers were used as ornaments. Twisted animal gut and sinews were used in the making of stringed instruments. Ivory usually came from Nile hippos and were used for carving combs and jewelry.

Egyptian burials often included sculpted clay and carved wooden figures, tools, and utensils in hopes they would service the dead in the afterlife. These were often part of a larger diorama or miniature three-dimensional scene. Because so many of these elaborate models have been found in the tombs of the royal families, we've learned a great deal about the customs of these people. For example, there are miniature models of butcher shops, scenes of counting and inspecting cattle, and scenes of plowing the fields. There are wonderfully detailed wall paintings and reliefs decorating the tombs, giving us further information about daily life in Ancient Egypt. It is interesting to note that much of this remained hidden for 4,000 to 5,000 years.

As Robert Fulford has written, "...Because the tombs were hidden so well, many of them remained intact until about 200 years ago, when the modern world began discovering them and prying them open, one after another, in wonderment and excitement and gratitude. And so our own civilization, through the collaboration of grave-robbers, scholars and art lovers, has come to know far more about Egypt than would otherwise be possible". [2]

[A] oi.uchicago.edu/OI/MUS/ED/TRC/EGYPT/animals.html [B]

members.tripod.com/~ib205/apis_2.html [C]

bbc.co.uk/history/ancient/egyptians

[1] Giza Digital Library: Giza Bibliography of George A. Reisner (1867-1942) Reisner, George A. "The Dog Which was Honored by the King of Upper and Lower Egypt." Bulletin of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston 34, No. 206 (December 1936), pp. 96-99.

[2] "Eternal optimists: The Royal Ontario Museum's exhibition of Egyptian art reminds us of a civilization that believed you can take it with you" The National Post Toronto, Canada 2 March 2004

The World's Future Prosperity Depends On The Creation And Evolution Of Digital Multipreneurs

Preamble

What I am about to share with you is my personal vision of what I am convinced is a workable strategy that can be used to move (especially developing) societies across the world FASTER on the path towards sustainable socio-economic and political development. What I write about here is a strategy which properly implemented can make INDIVIDUALS in many countries worldwide achieve their truly great potentials, and then work together with like-minded others to help their respective countries prosper in ways unprecedented.

If on reading the foregoing, you are already skeptical about how workable or realistic my proposed plan is, I urge you to be a little patient and continue reading. Understand that I make these assertions drawing from very deep reflection and extensive personal experience in successfully applying the principles I advocate for adoption in my personal life. AND this, in one of the most difficult environments any human being could possibly choose to pursue achievement of legitimate, authentic success on this planet, called Nigeria.

I Have NOT Said It All, Here!

Let me quickly warn that even though I have tried - in this paper - to be elaborate in my explanation of how this proposed strategy can be implemented, I cannot possibly cover all the necessary aspects, nor can I cater for every possible scenario. This is why I offer to make myself available to speak to and/or work with ANY groups of serious-minded individuals who would like to make use of the ideas I offer. This way, I believe any peculiar issues that arise can be properly considered and useful adaptations evolved.

Important Requirements/Understanding For Use Of This Strategy

What I am about to propose is NOT in any way a plan that needs to be handed over to ANY national government, regional authority, foreign governments or their nationals to implement. It is imperative that I also point out here, that the strategy I propose for adoption in this paper has been deliberately formed to be usable by ANY INDIVIDUAL who is willing to make the commitment to sustained application of effort, till the desired results are achieved. Having said that, if they are sure of each others "reliability", like-minded persons can also team up to use these ideas.

The Three Big Questions

1. How do we make it possible for any willing person(s) in our society (including the most disadvantaged e.g. indigent, poor, handicapped) to become capable of rendering economically beneficial products/services to others within and outside our countries and continents?

2. How do we ensure they do this in a way that enables them earn adequate remuneration to achieve financial independence so they are less vulnerable to being manipulated for their voting power?

3. How do we create a situation whereby opportunities for socio-economic benefits accessible to those in developing countries make the option of their leaving home to settle/work in developed countries far away from loves ones less compelling than it currently is?

My Answer - A Vision Statement

"The world's most successful entrepreneurs in the future will be Multipreneurs. That is why I believe our future economic (and sociopolitical) prosperity depends greatly on the creation, and evolution of INDIVIDUALS I call Digital (D) Multipreneurs(TM) in every society. They will be multi-skilled, independent minded thinkers, with a passion for creatively adapting technology and the Internet, to achieve sustainable economic (and sociopolitical) benefits.

These individuals will be notorious for depending MORE on their Creative Brain Power - and LESS on their Muscle Power - in working to ensure they can continually provide for themselves and those that depend on them. They will also be recognised for their ability to successfully coach willing others to become competent to succeed in society in the same way. In preparing themselves (and those they coach) to succeed, they will typically emphasise functional skills and knowledge acquisition, over formal schooling.

Most significantly, they will be known for earning income mainly while working from home, using digital technology and Internet resources, instead of being what Robert Kiyosaki calls "paycheck slaves". Their activities will ultimately have a multiplier developmental effect on their societies. Incidentally, such individuals already exist today, especially in developed societies - proving that this idea WORKS. That is why Self-Development Academy(SDAc)'s main objective is to actively promote the proliferation of D-Multipreneurs(TM)." - Tayo K. Solagbade, Founder Self-Development Academy(SDAc) Limited - 2006 Vision White Paper, 1st January 2006.

Proposed Ideas For Elimination of Algal Growth & Water Discoloration in a Waterfall or Fish Pond

Learning By Working As A Farm Hand

In 2002, I apprenticed on Muyiwa Adediran's Belewo specialised fish rearing farm for a period of about six (6) months. This was in line with my plan to acquire skills and knowledge to eventually startup my own Integrated Fish Farm later on. During this time I would come in on specified days (usually Sundays) to work full time - 7.00am till 7.00pm - as a farm hand.

My daily activities included cleaning the concrete ornamental fish breeding tanks, checking the tanks containing paired male and female ornamental fish (Gourami's and Paradise mostly) for floating bubbly masses of fertilised eggs etc.

If I found any, I would quickly remove the male(s). If I noticed hatched fries in a tank, I would use a hose to siphon them into a plastic jar, which would be used to move them into glass tanks in the nursery section of the farm.

I also checked the water quality and level in the concrete ponds holding adult catfish - making necessary water changes and topping up with fresh water where necessary. Then there were the wooden vats containing catfish fries, which I checked for dead fries or fingerlings, removing any that I found. Over the course of the day, I would prepare and add appropriate feed to the different fish groups in the respective sections.

Putting What I Learned To REAL-LIFE Use

Not long after I completed my last week on that farm, I began preparing marketing flyers offering aquarium building services to individuals and business. One Friday afternoon, I visited the business premises of a well known and highly successful alternative medicine practitioner.

During my presentation, I explained how my natural aquariums NEVER go green with algae growth due to the balanced ecosystem I am able to establish by taking advantage of natural processes like the Nitrogen cycle, deliberately cultivated friendly bacteria (in a gravel bed), along with live aquatic plants.

He got curious and asked if the same principles could be used to "clarify" the water in the waterfall/fish pond at his house, which had gone so green that the fish in it could no longer be seen. I responded in the affirmative.

He invited me to his home, the next day (Saturday), where he commissioned me to do an evaluation of the problem, and propose an action plan. Realising that I lacked the field experience to successfully carry out a project of this scope on my own, I promptly contacted Muyiwa Adediran, briefing him on the problem, with a view to enlisting his help towards doing a competent evaluation.

Muyiwa was able to find time to go to the site with me, and with his guidance, I prepared a report for the client, stating the findings and proposing possible lines of action to be followed to correct the problem.

Below, I offer highlights of the ideas contained in the report, which you may find useful for application to your own situation:

The report was titled "ELIMINATION OF ALGAL GROWTH/WATER DISCOLORATION PROBLEM"

During the Preliminary inspection visit conducted, I made the following observations:

a. That the water in the fall's "basin" was colored by green algal growth. As a result, transparency/visibility was severely impaired making the fish difficult to observe.
b. That the sides and bottom of the water fall "basin" were also covered by algae.
c. That there was floating debris (appearing to be mainly leftover fish food) on the pond water surface.

The findings of the MAJOR/ROOT CAUSE of the algae growth and water discoloration were given as:

Green algae proliferation caused by excessive light entry into water in basin. This was deduced especially because the waterfall was located in an open area, where the wind-transported spores of algae could readily gain access to it.

Other Possible contributors that could be investigated were also mentioned viz:

a. The type of fish food used; the feeding regime observed and also hygiene practices employed. For instance, I asked what happened to residual food not eaten up by fish in the event of overfeeding.

b. The nature/source of water could also contribute to the problem. I suggested that it probably had high amounts of essential plant nutrients favored by algae. (The report however emphasised that this could only be verified AFTER aquatic plants had been introduced to compete).

The SOLUTION proposed: The following were proposed for mitigation or possible eradication of the problem:

a. The base/sides of the water fall "basin" to be covered up with epoxy-resin layer of a thickness to be specified. The objective was to create contrasting underwater background that would enhance water transparency, and fish visibility.

b. Dense luxuriant growth of live aquatic plants like Vallisneria spiralis (Water Grass), Cabomba Caroliniana (Water Fan), Lagarosiphon Muscoides (African Elodea) etc to be initiated. The plants introduced will mostly be fully submerged. (Measurements had already been taken during the preliminary inspection)

The upper layer of water in the "basin" would be left free of vegetation to allow for easy sighting of ornamental fish varieties present. The luxuriant plant growth would filter out some of the light, while simultaneously consuming most of the essential nutrients in the water, so that the green coloring algae could be "starved" and their growth drastically reduced.

c. If fish food type or feeding regime/hygiene practices were identified to contribute to problem, necessary recommendations/guidelines would be given as appropriate.

d. The client might wish to consider incorporation of underwater lights to better accentuate waterfall beauty/fish visibility - especially at night. In this regard, the concept proposed was similar to that used in swimming pools.

e. The client might wish to consider applying gloss paint to the railing/walls that run around the waterfall. This would make cleaning of those surfaces (due to its proximity to wet soil) easier if/when need for it arose.

Summary

It is important to note that the report presented to the client proposed adoption of a NATURAL solution to the identified cause of the problem. Other options were considered. But none were evaluated to be as reliable, affordable and long-lasting as the natural method.

I offer the above report content summary as possibly useful reference information for persons who may encounter a similar problem in the course of managing similar water based facilities - including their aquariums.

Self-Development/Performance Enhancement Specialist - Tayo Solagbade - works as a Multipreneur, helping individuals/businesses develop and implement strategies to achieve their goals, faster and more profitably.

Tips on Hippocampus Kuda Or Common Seahorse Care

Seahorses are cataloged in the genus Hippocampus. The members of this genus belong to the family Syngnathidae. This family contains over 50 individual species including all seahorses and their close relatives the pipefish. Seahorses are found in shallow waters of tropical and temperate zones around the world.

The name Hippocampus is first recorded in Greek poetry. Hippos means horse and campus translates to sea monster. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed seahorses were a gift from the sea god Poseidon/Neptune. Despite their fragility, seahorses were perceived to be a symbol of strength and power. There are three species of seahorse found in the Mediterranean Sea. These are the Hippocampus hippocampus or long snout, the Hippocampus brevirostris or short snout, and the Hippocampus fuscus which emigrated from its native habitat in the Red Sea. Many Europeans thought these equine-like creatures bore the souls of recently departed sailors, providing them safe passage to the underworld and protecting over them until their souls meant their destiny. Seahorse fossils have been discovered dating as far back as 13 million years. Here we will focus both the seahorse collectively and one specific species Hippocampus kuda also known as the common seahorse.

The common seahorse is indigenous to the Indo-Pacific. Twenty-three countries have confirmed the presence of H. Kuda ranging as far south as Australia to as far north as China.

Seahorses have been procured by Chinese herbologists for their purported healing qualities for centuries. Native populations throughout Indonesia and the Central Philippines also use seahorses as a component in herbalistic medicines. It is estimated that up to 20 millions seahorses a year are harvested to support this thriving industry. Over fishing has driven seahorse populations to the verge of becoming endangered species. The common seahorse is currently listed as a vulnerable species by CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, also known as the Washington Convention). CITES has regulated the import and export of seahorses in this region of the world since 2004. Unfortunately Indonesia, Japan and South Korea do not recognize the trade rules put in place by the Washington Convention.

Seahorses are a boney fish. They are devoid of scales. They have a thin layer of skin stretched over a series of bony plates arranged in rings. Each individual species has a specific number of these rings. Seahorses have a cornet on their heeds. These cornets are distinctive to each seahorse. No two are identical much like a human fingerprint.

These creatures swim vertically, a trait specific to seahorses. They are poor swimmers who move very slowly in the water. Propulsion is achieved by the rapid flutter of the dorsal fin on their backs. They maneuver with the use of their pectoral fins located behind their eyes. They do not possess a caudal (tail) fin. In its place there is a prehensile tail which they warp around stationary objects to anchor themselves.

In an aquarium seahorses must be provided with objects to anchor themselves to. Coral and small branches will suffice nicely. These are timid creatures that should never be housed with even moderately aggressive species. They are easily stressed. Prolonged periods of stress will lower the efficiency of their immune system making them more susceptible to disease. Gobies and other docile mannered fish will make suitable tank mates. Seahorses are primarily bottom dwellers. They will peacefully coexist with ornamental crustaceans and other bottom feeders. This makes them the perfect compliment to a marine reef aquarium.

Amateur aquarist should not attempt to raise seahorses. You will only accomplish the unnecessary death of a rapidly vanishing species. Seahorses are only recommended for the more experienced saltwater aficionado.

All seahorses are carnivorous. They use their snouts to suck in zooplankton as a source of nutrition. Upon initial introduction to a home aquarium sea horses may only eat live food offerings. Rotifers, mysis and brine shrimp should help persuade them to start feeding. With patience they can be weaned off of live food. These are slow feeders and must not be made to compete for their food.

In recent decades the captive breeding of seahorses has become increasingly widespread. The common seahorse is among these commercially raised specimens. Farm raised seahorses may already be acclimated to non-living food offerings. These are commonly more expensive than wild caught seahorses. However you have a specimen that will not have to endure the shock and trauma of being yanked out of its natural habitat and placed in the confines of an aquarium. Farm raised marine species are more disease resistant and have a much higher survivability rate. And you will not be a participant in the further depletion of an already threatened species.

Weather Vanes - Perfect For Setting Your House Apart From The Rest

So, you are looking for a way to set your house apart from the rest because you live in the suburbs and the one problem with suburbs is that the homes tend to look all the same. Well, just turn to lovely weather vanes to make your house stand out.

Really, weather vanes are a charming, decorative way to put a unique spin on your home and what's great about them is the fact that there are tons of options to choose from, making it easy to find just the right one to match your personal style.

For example, maybe you really like hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors. Then, the weather vanes that would be right for you are ones that match that exact theme. Choose from ones shaped like elk, moose, bears, trout, ducks, and even a shotgun, wolf, pine trees, retrievers, and deer or gooses.

Not into the outdoors, no problem because there are a slew more choices available. Like, maybe you're into the ocean, a great option for you then would be ones that are in the shape of dolphins and even wheels. There are others that look just like lighthouses and some that take on the shape of tall schooners and others that look like anchors and mermaids.

So, as you can see, there are just a lot of weather vanes choices out there and in addition to those mentioned, there are many, many more. Including those that look like your favorite college sports' team's logo, others that are in the shape of cars and trucks, some that have a fanciful, ornamental feel, and some that even look like farm animals.

For a great way to see the many options that are available, just hit the Internet for some online shopping. Why? Because it's fast and easy. Just by the glide and click of your mouse, you can sift through what the different Internet retailers are offering and when you do find something that you like, you can have it shipped right to your home. Basically, shopping has never been so easy.

One thing to keep in mind when actually making a weather vanes purchase is to get ones that are crafted out of better quality materials. This is really important given that if you don't, the one you get will not be able to stand up to the elements. It will end up breaking down and then you'll have to replace it sooner rather than later. So, some of the better materials to go with include copper, stainless steel, and aluminum. It is a sturdy choice so once you install your selection on the top of your house, you don't have to worry about it going anywhere.

In the end, if you want your home to really stand out from the rest, a great way to personalize it is with a weather vane. They are stylish outdoor fixtures that you cannot go wrong by investing in. So, what are you waiting for? Go out and get yours today so you can start admiring for many years to come.

Enjoy a Vacation in Summerland With Your Family

Summerland is located on the west side of Okanagan Lake in British Columbia, Canada. Other nearby region is Kelowna and Vancouver. According to 2006 census, population in this place is nearly 10,828. Annual temperature in this valley is approximately 10 degree Celsius. In summer the temperature is 21 degree Celsius and winter mean is -3.5 degree Celsius.

Many people may think why it is considered a tourist attraction. One main reason being it is ideal for the Lake. In addition, it has fresh tree fruits like peaches, cherries, apples, pears and canneries. Many tourists can visit fruit farms and enjoy fresh fruits. Latest trend is grape production which has led to world renowned wineries. There are several golf courses which has increased tourist. It is also home to the kettle valley Steam Railway.

Local attractions include Summerland Ornamental Gardens, Canyon View Path and Trout Creek Canyon. Kichininee Provincial Park is one of the popular destinations for snorkeling fans and sunbathers. The park has three beaches bordering the Lake. Summer activities enjoyed includes hiking, water skiing, sailing, boating, railway tours, wine tours, swimming, picnicking, golfing, kayaking and canoeing. The Lake is the largest lake in the Valley extending over 135 kilometers long. Being a large lake, it has many water activities, sandy beaches, parks, resorts etc.

When visiting the lake people can enjoy activities like swimming, boating, fishing, water skiing, kayaking, canoeing, house boating and sun tanning. Hiking trails are worth a look as it includes Peach Orchard Loop Trail and the hike up to the Peak of Giants Head Mountain. Giants Head Mountain was once a volcano. There are various accommodations where tourists can stay and have excellent breakfast, lunch and dinner.

There are various finest bed & breakfast accommodations in peaceful mountain valley retreat surrounded amongst vineyards and orchards. Most of the Bed & Breakfast accommodation strives to provide private and luxurious retreat; a venue for relaxation, exploration, wine and dining experience.

In most of the accommodations there are bathrooms with top quality fixtures. In each guest room you can find all your necessary items like Cable TV/DVD, Hair Dryer, Internet connection, Toiletries, Large Sun Deck and Iron Board etc. Near to these accommodations you can find seasonal vegetables, fruit and grapes that are cultivated for the enjoyment of guests and vistas of lake, mountains and orchards.

Management and Education in the Marine Aquarium Industry

As an aquarium professional I would like to discuss the pressure our hobby as put on the worlds reefs and what we can do to minimize damage. First and foremost we must promote responsible reef keeping by learning and researching these wild animals we wish to care for out of their natural environment. Management through collector and consumer education as well as captive farming and aquaculture we can make this hobby sustainable.

The aquarium hobby is a complex hobby to say the least, this makes research the most important component in this hobby. The net is full of resources that will help you in your decision of your newest animal you want to add to your aquarium. There are many things you need to ask yourself when you are adding a new animal to your reef.

1.Are my current animals compatible with this new addition.

2.How difficult or sensitive is the new animal to water conditions.

3.What is the success rate of this animal in captivity. Does keeping them in an aquarium cut their life span in half.(In the wild Mandarins live to be 15 years old, in captivity most don't live over 2 years.)

4.What are this animals food requirements, water temperature, or salinity etc.

5.Are you purchasing this animal from a responsible store or supplier (Stay away from stores that will just sell you a fish to make a sale, or sell corals that they know don't survive in captivity for long periods of time.)

These are just a few of the questions you need to ask yourself before making the purchase of a new animal.

Next I want to get into the subject of Captive bred fish and Aquacultured corals. This to me is a very important role in the aquarium industry. Not only do some of the most beautiful prized and most expensive pieces of coral come from aquaculture, they also are adjusted to the life in an aquarium through generations of captive fragging.

There are more reasons to aquaculture than I can think of but here are a few reasons.

1. You can do this at home! Many people pay their hobby expenses or make a living from selling their aquacultured corals.

2. Wild corals generally come with parasites or foreign animals you don't want in your aquarium.;

3. Wild colonies will be shipped in unhealthy and for the most part will not adjust well to your aquarium causing lack of color and health as well as death.

4. Aquaculture put less stress on the worlds reefs. Although some countries like the Filipino government has failed to protect its coral reefs and ornamental fish this doesn't mean we can't prevent further destruction by sustaining our own captive inhabitants.

5. Less costly. Most aquaculture corals are less costly than a wild caught animal as they don't have to travel as far and aren't imported.

Finally the last thing we can do to promote the health of world reefs and maintain a sustainable marine aquarium trade is to educate the consumer and collector. Organizations like Reef Check and MAC challenge hobbiest and collectors to maintain standards and care of ornamental marine life. Education to consumers and collectors will help the effort worldwide for a sustainable aquarium industry.

In essence there are many ways we can all help to maintain and keep this hobby sustainable. First by educating yourself about your new animals or upcoming purchases. Second by promoting aquaculture and purchase of aquaculture animals rather than their wild counterpart. Third consumer and collector education will help the worldwide effort in promoting a successful marine aquarium industry.