FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kris Wilk / 905-608-9373 / info@reefnet.ca
ReefNet Announces New Fish ID Software on CD and DVD


Toronto, Canada -- October 1, 2003 -- ReefNet Inc. today announced the availability of an expanded 3rd edition of its "Fishes of the Caribbean and Adjacent Waters" CD-ROM field guide for Windows-based PCs. In addition to significant new core content (species descriptions, photos, videos), ReefNet has produced an enhanced DVD version of the product capable of being played by regular set-top DVD players. The enhanced DVD version contains over an hour of high-quality, indexed video content for use in education, entertainment, and retail display settings. The DVD also contains the full software content of the standard CD-ROM version.
The suggested retail prices are $70 (2 CDs) and $75 (DVD). Registered users of previous editions of the software can upgrade for $15 (2 CDs) or $20 (DVD). Availability is expected mid-November.
New in the 3rd Edition
"Fishes of the Caribbean and Adjacent Waters, 3rd Edition" includes a wide variety of new content. Over 80 species have been added to the database, now totalling over 635. The species descriptions are accompanied by nearly 2500 full-colour photographs and 1000 video clips.
ReefNet proudly notes that several species descriptions include exclusive "first-ever" photographs and video. A number of previously undescribed species are also documented.
Standard Features
ReefNet's newest field guide retains all of the popular features of the 2nd Edition. Its species browser, powerful multi-key search engine, and detailed species descriptions have been praised by fishwatchers, educators, and researchers. Each species description is accompanied by multiple photographs, video content, sketches, and audio pronunciation of the scientific name. The text is thorough and comprehensive.
Interactive Features
In addition to the core content, the 3rd Edition boasts a number of other interactive learning and entertainment tools. Some of these include:
- A flash-card Fish Quiz, customizable for the user's skill level
- A sightings log in which the users can track notable sightings
- An illustrated glossary of scientific terms and definitions
- An interactive map of the islands of the Caribbean
- A powerful Multimedia Show Designer for designing custom presentations.
Supplements
Advanced fishwatchers and researchers will appreciate the scientific supplements included with the 3rd Edition CD/DVD:
- Identification keys for problematic families
- Case studies developed by ReefNet's staff during field research
- A detailed explanation of the rules of ichthyological nomenclature
- A complete bibliography
Additional DVD Content
The enhanced DVD version of the 3rd Edition has all the software features of the CD version, but additionally contains content playable by any standard set-top DVD player. Inserting the DVD in such a player offers the user over an hour of exceptional video content. The DVD menu allows the user to either browse for a particular species by name, or to play the disc in continuous fashion.
The DVD version is well suited for advanced users, educators, and dive stores/operations that would like a simple point-of-sale display option instead of running a complete PC.
System Requirements
"Fishes of the Caribbean and Adjacent Waters, 3rd Edition" requires a Windows-based PC with the following minimum system specifications:
- Pentium class processor
- Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, XP
- 32 MB RAM
- 250 MB free disk space (up to 1.2GB for full install)
- True-colour (16-bit or higher) video adapter
- Sound card
About ReefNet
ReefNet has been engineering high-tech products for divers, scientists and marine enthusiasts since 1994. Although best known for its Sensus dive data recorders, ReefNet also publishes marine life field guides and manufactures dive accessories including communication devices and optical components. To learn more about ReefNet, visit reefnet.ca or call 1-888-819-REEF.
###
If you'd like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call Kris Wilk at 905-608-9373 or e-mail info@reefnet.ca
