Introduction

Founded in 2004, the CARES (Conservation, Awareness, Recognition and Responsibility, Encouragement and Education, and Support and Sharing) Preservation Program is based on the critical and timely significance of conservation, educating the public and bringing awareness as hobbyists to the issues involved, public recognition of members, our responsibilities as fishkeepers, member encouragement, sharing of fish and data, and support for those who take part in playing a vital role in ensuring a positive future for species at risk. The purpose of the CARES Preservation Program is to encourage hobbyists worldwide to devote tank space to one or more species at risk and distribute offspring to fellow qualified hobbyists, while forming an information network where possible between aquarists, scientists, and conservationists.

CARES is designed to be implemented through local aquarium societies and national as well as international organizations. This way, participants will have the greatest opportunity to distribute and locate fish, and to share their experiences with like-minded hobbyists. For the club nearest you, please see the listing of CARES Member Clubs and contact us for assistance.

Please note that CARES is designed to be easy and enjoyable! We ask that you follow the basic requirements and welcome your creativity. As the purpose of CARES is to encourage hobbyists to devote tank space to one or more species at risk, offering that species a future of hope, if you have done that, you have done well!

CARES is immensely grateful for the essential work of esteemed ichthyologist and champion of conservation, Dr. Paul V. Loiselle. Dr. Loiselle oversees all revisions to the CARES Preservation Program Conservation Priority Species at Risk List as our CARES Preservation Program Technical Editor of Freshwater Fishes, as well as playing a vital role as consultant for the program.

We truly welcome you and are so glad to have you as a part of this global endeavor! Should you have any questions, or if we can be of help in any way, please do not hesitate to ask. If you know of another club or organization who would like information on the CARES Preservation Program, please let us know and we will gladly send them an e-packet, as well as extend an invitation for them to visit us here at www.CARESforfish.org or our Facebook page at CARES Preservation.

A warm and heartfelt thank you to those of you who have become an integral part of CARES, volunteering your exceptional talents and contributions, implementing the program within your club, and to those who have spread the word! Each and every one of you has made this earth a better place for aquatic life, offering a chance of hope for a brighter future!

With Warm Wishes,

Claudia Dickinson
CARES Preservation Program Coordinator
One person cannot save them all, but we can each save at least one.
Together, we can and we are making a difference!