Exotic Zoology - Vol 4 No 2 INCOMPLETE - 1997

Magazine Overview

Title: EXOTIC ZOOLOGY
Issue: Vol. 4, #2
Date: March/April 1997
Editor: Matthew A. Bille

This issue of Exotic Zoology, the bimonthly magazine of cryptozoology, focuses on recent discoveries in South American ichthyology and cryptozoology. The cover prominently features the headline "RECENT DISCOVERIES: FISHING IN SOUTH AMERICA," accompanied by an illustration and issue details.

Recent Discoveries: Fishing in South America

The lead article details the significant findings from two recent South American expeditions. A team from the University of Arizona, led by Dr. John Lundberg and funded by the National Science Foundation, explored the deeper channels of the Amazon River. In waters ranging from 30 to 150 feet deep, they collected 240 species, many previously unknown. The dominant groups identified were catfish and electric fish. Among the discoveries were electric fish that exclusively consume the tails of other electric fish, transparent catfish, armor-plated catfish, an incredibly tiny species (one-third of an inch long) with both transparent and armored characteristics, and electric fish with unique features like a tongue-like projection. Notably, two electric fish species appeared identical but were distinguished by their electrical discharge patterns.

Further exploration in the Amazon system, specifically the Rio Negro, revealed areas over 300 feet deep, suggesting more undiscovered species. The article notes that even extensive efforts leave much of the Amazon system unexplored.

Concurrently, Conservation International's first AquaRAP team conducted a month-long expedition in the Tahuamanu and Manuripi River basins in Bolivia. This team of over twenty scientists netted specimens from rivers, streams, and swamps, resulting in the identification of five new fish species. The most remarkable find was described as a "dinosaur-like armored catfish covered in bony plates."

The article cites "Amazon's Depths Yield Strange New World of Unknown Fish" from the New York Times (February 12, 1997), CI News From the Front (Vol. 2, No. 2, Oct-Nov 1996), and personal communication from Dr. John Lundberg (February 1997) as sources.

An image of one of the new species from the University of Arizona project is included, identified as a diminutive, yet-unnamed armored catfish of the genus Rhynchodoras, Family Doradidae, also known as "thorny catfishes." The article provides a link to a detailed account of Dr. Lundberg's work on the Internet: http://eeweb.arizona.edu/fish/calhamaz.html.

Special Announcement

The editor, Matthew A. Bille, announces that he will be collaborating with Darren Naish, a British paleontologist, on a book about cryptocetology, focusing on whales and dolphins. Richard Ellis, author and illustrator of "Monsters of the Sea" and "Deep Atlantic," will serve as the illustrator. The book is scheduled for completion in 1998. Readers are invited to contribute information on cetacean origins and evolution, unconfirmed species, unexplained sightings, or unusual individual cetaceans (albinos, hybrids, or specimens found outside their known habitats).

Subscriber Directory

The magazine announces the "SECOND ANNUAL SUBSCRIBER DIRECTORY" to be published in the July/August 1997 issue. Members interested in exchanging information on new, rediscovered, and unknown animals can opt-in by filling out a form with their name, professional background (optional), mailing address, email address, and up to five special interest areas. The form is to be returned by June 1, 1997, to the Exotic Zoology address in Colorado Springs, CO.

Resources

This section lists periodicals and books relevant to cryptozoology. It mentions the ISC Newsletter (Vol. 11, No. 3), which covers recent ISC activities, including an article on gorilla rediscovery in Nigeria and research on alleged unknown primates in Vietnam. It also highlights two articles from Discover magazine (January 1997): "A Marmoset With Appendages" about the primate Callithrix saterei, and "Where the Running Rodents Play" concerning the Panay cloudrunner (Crateromys heaneyi). A book review of Leslie Horvitz's "Cryptozoologists Try to Separate Strange Fact From Science Fiction" from Insight (January 27) is also included, describing it as a sympathetic and well-written overview of cryptozoology.

Editor's Page

Matthew A. Bille defines cryptozoology as the subspecialty of finding new or supposedly extinct species, emphasizing that the term should not be sensationalized. He encourages serious researchers to join the revived International Society of Cryptozoology (ISC), which has resumed publication of its Newsletter. Bille states that Exotic Zoology is published 6 times a year by himself and Deborah A. Bille (Business Manager). Subscription rates are provided: $18/year for U.S. addresses, $20/year for international. Students and educators receive discounted rates. Permission is granted to duplicate text for educational use, with written permission required for illustrations.

The "Business Manager's Niche" thanks subscribers for renewing and welcoming new ones, and provides an email address ([email protected]) for concerns regarding delivery or payment. A $1 reduction on renewal rates is offered for each new subscriber referred.

Under "Now in Print," the editor promotes his own book, "RUMORS OF EXISTENCE," published by Hancock House, which lists at $12.95. The book covers new, rediscovered, and unconfirmed animals. Autographed copies can be ordered directly from the author for $15 (U.S.) or $17 (other countries).

The logo illustration is identified as "Delphinus rhinoceros," described by naturalists Quoy and Gaimard in 1819, with a drawing by Craig Gosling copyright 1994.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a serious, scientific approach to cryptozoology, distinguishing it from sensationalism. The editorial stance is to collect and study evidence of unknown or extinct species. The issue emphasizes the vastness of unexplored biodiversity, particularly in aquatic environments like the Amazon. There is a clear encouragement for researchers and enthusiasts to engage with the field, join organizations like the ISC, and contribute to ongoing research and publications, including the magazine itself and the editor's upcoming book.