A prominent mission of the International Betta Congress (IBC) has been to generate and disseminate knowledge regarding the genus Betta. Few have done more in realizing this mission than Dr. Gene Lucas. Gene is a founding member of the IBC, a professor emeritus at Drake University, and, since January 1978, has authored a monthly column in the tropical fish magazine Freshwater and Marine Aquarium (FAMA). His research and writings cover husbandry and breeding, genetics, color types, anatomy and physiology, diseases, parasites and treatments, and wild Betta.

The IBC is pleased to establish the Gene Lucas Fund in his name to award and encourage research on Betta. The IBC is actively soliciting and accepting donations to this fund.

The Gene Lucas Fund is maintained independent of the general treasury of the IBC in an interest bearing account. Tax deducible donations of any amount are welcome. Donations in the form of estates and trusts are likewise encouraged. The IBC will draw on the interest of the fund to provide for the continuing support of meritorious research.

Donations to the fund are accepted by check - mailed to the treasurer (click here for the current mailing address) or electronically, marked "Gene Lucas Fund", to the IBC Paypal account (bettacongress@yahoo.com).

For those not familiar with the background and career of Dr. Lucas, we have reproduced an article from Flare! that tells us the story of Dr. Lucas through a tribute:

"A Very Special Evening"