Hornyheads, Madtoms, and Darters: Narratives on Central Appalachian Fishes

by Stuart A. Welsh

A collection of essays on nature, naturalists, and the natural history of fishes in central Appalachia. A nature lover’s paradise, central Appalachia supports a diversity of life in an extensive network of waterways and is home to a dazzling array of fish species. This book focuses not only on the fishes of central Appalachia but also on the fascinating things these fishes do in their natural habitats. An ecological dance unfolds from a species and population perspective, although the influence of the community and the ecosystem also figures in the text. Stuart A. Welsh’s essays link central Appalachian fishes with the complexities of competition and predation, species conservation, parasitic infections, climate change, public attitudes, reproductive and foraging ecology, unique morphology, habitat use, and nonnative species. The book addresses a selection of the families of central Appalachian fishes, including lampreys, gars, freshwater eels, pikes, minnows, suckers, catfishes, trouts, trout-perches, sculpins, sunfishes, and perches. These essays often refer to the works of naturalists who contributed to our knowledge of nature during previous centuries and who recorded their discoveries when science writing was less concise than it is today. Although many of these works are nearly forgotten, these early naturalists built a strong knowledge base that supports much of our current science and thus merits reexamination. Most people are not scientists, but many have an interest in nature and are, in their own way, naturalists. This book is for those people willing to peer beneath the water’s surface.

336 pages, Paperback

Published October 24, 2023

Reviews

[Jimmy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's probably a little biased of me to give this a 5 star because Appalachia and fish are what some would consider my hyper fixation, but regardless, a fantastic book.

This is a perfect example of scientific literature summarized into comprehensive storytelling. Something similar to a more archaic literature of a naturalist. I very much appreciate the ideology that is present in an easy and comprehensive matter. Also, there are so many references within the book that make you want to read more literature on some of the subjects.

The chapters all focus on different topics of fisheries, whether it be a specific fish, family of fish, or another fish type topic. It's a super great read for all. I learned a lot and also inspired to ask my own questions of different taxa. Very informative, and I would say a must-read for a fish or Appalachia nerd.

[Gregory Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

I try to refrain from five-star reviews, but in this case I was much tempted. I'm not sure what could possibly have made for a better read. Mr. Welsh has a way of weaving dry science and human interest (or, I guess, fishy interest) together, making for an enjoyable and compelling read. And I learned a lot about fish, our streams, the environment around us... much more than just information on the various species.

Welsh's writing style is fun, his language is simple (without the author talking down to his audience), the chapters perfect in length. (My eleven year old daughter/fishing buddy is reading it next, and I'm curious to find out what she thinks!)

[Sull McCartney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Educational and entertaining