Heiko Bleher, a legend, explorer, traveler, and icon of aquaristics, dedicated his life to discovery. His legacy is tied to the discovery of new species of aquarium fish and plants. His contribution also includes the understanding that aquaristics is both a science and an art. Let us remember why he became an inspiration for millions of aquarists around the world.
Heiko Bleher is a name that resonates with respect and admiration in aquarium circles. This tireless traveler and world-renowned ichthyologist has spent most of his life exploring and mapping the aquatic worlds of our planet, from the remote corners of the Amazon to the rivers of New Guinea. His work has fundamentally influenced the understanding of aquaristics and has introduced countless new species of fish and plants into our aquariums.
Through his expeditions and meticulous study of natural habitats, Heiko Bleher has demonstrated what the true needs of aquarium animals and plants are. He was not only an explorer but also a popularizer who enthusiastically shared his knowledge and experiences. His photographs, articles, and books have inspired generations of aquarists around the world.
In recognition of his lifelong work and numerous discoveries, several species of fish and plants have been named after him:
Fish
Red-headed Tetra (Hemigrammus bleheri)
Bleher's Leporinus (Leporinus bleheri)
Bleher's Rainbowfish (Kiunga bleheri)
Bleher's Snakehead (Channa bleheri)
Bleher's Rainbow (Chilatherina bleheri)
Moenkhausia heikoi
Steatocranus bleheri
Bleheratherina pierucciae
Phenacogrammus bleheri
Hyphessobrycon amandae (named after his mother Amanda Bleher)
Plants
Bleher's Echinodorus (Echinodorus bleherae)
Vriesea bleheri
Echinodorus heikobleheri
Neoregelia amandae (named after his mother Amanda Bleher)
Vriesea michaeli (named after his father Michael Bleher)
These species are now a common part of aquariums, and thus his legacy has become a permanent part of the daily lives of aquarists.
Heiko Bleher has shown that aquaristics is not just a hobby, but above all a window into a fascinating and fragile aquatic world. His contributions to science and the popularization of aquariums are enormous, and his work will inspire future generations.
Images: Channa bleheri, Hemigrammus bleheri, Hyphessobrycon amandae
Photograph of Heiko Bleher: http://aquaria.palo-alto.ca.us/misc/people/b/bleher/.00-0-Copr_2017-Heiko_Bleherx.jpg.meta/
