Bring the Biggs to your event! Chris is a much sought after speaker due to his depth of knowledge on a variety of topics relating to fish, insects, arachnids, amphibians, terrestrial plants and reptiles. His style is both educational and humorous. His frank bravado and charm, as well as his experience make him a much sought after speaker, judge and auctioneer at events everywhere. Eager to share and educate, he is a welcome presence nationally and internationally. A life-long aquarist, his father thrust him into the hobby at a very young age with a small tank they kept in their family den and he has never looked back. He is a founding member of the Aquarium Society of Winnipeg, the Canadian Cichlid Association, as well as the Dead Fish Order. He achieved in short order the level of Grand Master for both fish breeding and horticulture. He is a classically trained Botanist, passionate naturalist and avid gardener. Chris has traveled extensively, collecting, studying fishes, plants, reptiles and invertebrates in their natural habitats, as well as attending workshops and conventions the world over. He shares his vast knowledge, adventures and experience through his lectures as well as his YouTube Channels “The Mad Aquarist” and “Realm Natura.” Chris is a featured speaker in the American Cichlid Association Speaker Program by ZooMed Labs. This program provides funds for half of the travel expenses with a maximum dollar amount of $200. You are responsible for any additional expenses including lodging and meals. Details can be found here: https://cichlid.org/?page_id=72 Chris is also honored to also be on the CARES (Conservation, Awareness, Recognition and Responsibility, Encouragement and Education, and Support and Sharing) speaker list . 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.