The XI th. International Zoological Pet Fair meeting took place between 8 th. and 10 th. of May 2009 in Lodz, Expo Hall. Record number of visitors (8200) attended.This year, the 100 anniversary of aquarist movement in Poland, additional functions took place. They were organized by the Lodz Aquarists and Terrarists Society.
The event was opened, on behalf of the Society, by Mark Cebula. During the meeting the V th. aquarist symposium took place with several interesting presentations. Pawel Zarzynski gave a historic overview of aquarist activities in Poland. There were also a number of International Participants. Heiko Bleher, invited by the firm “TROPICAL”, detailed his travels in New Guinea, which resulted in discovery of a new species of rainbow fish. Thanks to generosity of “AQUAEL” aquarists were able to meet with Chris Lukhaup. Famous “craykeeper” spoke about new trends in breeding of crayfish and other crustaceans. A morning workshop designed to help set up a sea aquarium was held by firm “ZIARKO” and was conducted by Gerd Roesner. At 5 pm. Organizers recognized hard work and awarded medals and diplomas to the most active members of various Clubs, Aquarist Societies and some of the firms, “TROPICAL”, “AQUAEL” and “ZOOLEK”, which contributed to the development of our hobby in Poland. 
On Sunday, Marta Mierzynska, gave a presentation on the behaviour of Tanganyikan cichlids. A paper by Andrzej Sieniawski dealt with the negative effects of stress on fish. Advice was given by Grzegorz Guzik on setting up plant aquaria. The firms “AQUAEL”, “MHK’ and “TROPICAL’ exhibited their products. During the FAIR it was possible to view an interesting photographic exhibition by Adam Adamski. At the same time one could visit, in Lodz House of Culture”, an exhibition of various archival items relating to the aquarist movement. The competition for the “PET FAIR’ medal was determined in a traditional way. A statue was given to the firm “AQUAEL” for AQUAEL REEFMAX.
The firm “TROPICAL” was recognized for “KELP ALGAE FLAKES”.
Unfortunately, during the “FAIR”, a regrettable incident occurred. For reasons as yet unknown, water in many aquaria became turbid. This negatively affected presentations and threatened the tank inhabitants. The most likely cause is a presence of protozoa. Organizers have sent samples from the affected aquaria for detailed analysis to determine the cause and hopefully, by knowing the precise cause, prevent such an occurrence in future meetings. It must be stressed that in spite of this, we have observed a spirit of camaraderie and willingness to help shown by both the participants and organizers who tried to limit the damage and save fish when possible.
In closing it is necessary to mention an interesting initiative suggested by representatives of many organizations, “LSAiT”, “PKMD”, “GSA”, and “KSA” who proposed a formation of Federation of Aquarist / Terrarist and Shrimp Societies. The main objectives of such a body would be not to impose rules, but to represent various groups with Government law makers; it would also help in co-ordinating both National and International events.
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