An ALA Fellow, this retired Curator of the historic Belle Isle Aquarium in Detroit has been instrumental in the captive breeding, education, awareness, and distribution of the endangered and extinct fishes over 6 decades, particularly the Goodeid livebearers of Mexico. Most of the goodeids currently in the hobby are believed to have come from Langhammer’s stocks, which he has been freely giving away to hobbyists, universities, and public aquariums around the world for decades. Jim also introduced several other species to the freshwater hobby, and worked closely with ALA Founder Dr. Joanne Norton in the early years of that organization, later serving as Chairman. He is also one of the Founders and First President of American Cichlid Asssociation (ACA), where he is also honored as a Fellow.

“Hammer” as he is known among his friends, continues to be a source of education and assistance to hobbyists and academics of all levels around the world. The ALA honors his generosity and commitment to endangered animals with the establishment of a conservation fund in his name.