This thorough revision of the classic Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals brings this authoritative book right up-to-date. Articles describe every species in detail, based on the very latest taxonomy, and a host of biological, ecological and sociological aspects relating to marine mammals. The latest information on the biology, ecology, anatomy, behavior and interactions with man is provided by a cast of expert authors – all presented in such detail and clarity to support both marine mammal specialists and the serious naturalist. Fully referenced throughout and with a fresh selection of the best color photographs available, the long-awaited second edition remains at the forefront as the go-to reference on marine mammals. - More than 20% NEW MATERIAL includes articles on Climate Change, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Sociobiology, Habitat Use, Feeding Morphology and more - Over 260 articles on the individual species with topics ranging from anatomy and behavior, to conservation, exploitation and the impact of global climate change on marine mammals - New color illustrations show every species and document topical articles FROM THE FIRST EDITION "This book is so good...a bargain, full of riches...packed with fascinating up to date information. I recommend it unreservedly it to individuals, students, and researchers, as well as libraries." --Richard M. Laws, MARINE MAMMALS SCIENCE "...establishes a solid and satisfying foundation for current study and future exploration" --Ronald J. Shusterman, SCIENCE

The most comprehensive collection of photographs of the Pacific Northwest marine life published!

Few creatures have captured the imaginations of so many for so long as have monsters of the deep. Their history has been surprisingly consistent, the author notes. Most began as myths and then acquired a sense of reality when the existence of creatures resembling those chronicled in legend was documented. Ellis (Men and Whales) gives a superb account of marine monsters and their attendant myths, sightings, scientific discovery and biology. He describes only the best known and the best documented. He traces the mermaid to the manatee and dugong, Leviathan to the sperm whale, kraken to the giant squid and polyp to the octopus (sharks, however, remain sharks). He examines these monsters in art, literature and film, taking Jules Verne and Victor Hugo to task for their ignorance of biology, hysterical fantasy and unmitigated malice. Herman Melville, Arthur C. Clarke and Peter Benchley get better ratings. Of all the sighted monsters, only the giant squid (Architeuthis) retains its mythological and cryptozoological status, for its very existence is shrouded in mystery. Sharks have had a bad reputation throughout history, but until Jaws (1974) they did not figure prominently in literature. At the end of this engaging book, Ellis confesses to skepticism: "monsters, if they exist, have more to fear from us than we do from them.

This illustrated catalogue of water animals from dolphins and whales through marine and freshwater fish to corals and other primitive life includes descriptions of physical characteristics, life cycles and reproductive behavior, and survival status

Whether shark mad, dotty for dolphins or orca obsessed, this extraordinary encyclopedia has all you need to know about life beneath the ocean. Full of fascinating facts and stunning sea life photography, this book covers everything from the ocean shores to deep sea creatures. Find out why octopuses release ink, why clownfish live in anemone tentacles and where can you find a halloween crab. Based on the latest research, this definitive guide to ocean life includes easy-to-follow information on anatomy and behavior of sea creatures. It also includes fun fact-boxes, with information you wouldn't believe! Perfect for children working on a school project, or simply the ocean obsessed, the Children's Encyclopedia of Ocean Life is a brilliant guide for kids aged 8+. ABOUT THE SERIES: Arcturus Children's Reference Library uses stunning photography, fabulous facts and useful diagrams to introduce a variety of subjects - from the animal kingdom to space. Great to dip into, these reference guides are a staple for any child's bookshelf.

Provides photographs and descriptions of various types of marine life found around the world, including fish, crabs, corals, dolphins, sharks, and others.

In this updated edition, award-winning author and whale researcher Erich Hoyt takes readers into the field for an intimate encounter with 93 species of cetaceans that make their homes in the world's oceans, rivers and lakes. Drawing on decades of firsthand experience and a comprehensive familiarity with the current revolution in cetacean studies, Hoyt provides unique insights into the life histories of whales. This new edition features descriptions of three new whale and dolphin species, along with the latest discoveries about cetacean biology and behavior, from the physical differences and adaptations among the baleen and toothed whales to their highly intelligent hunting and feeding methods. Uncovered in fascinating detail are the courtship and mating practices, family relationships and the lifelong bonds among some family members. The symphonic composer of the whale world is the humpback whale, whose complex 30-minute songs reverberate across the liquid universe of the ocean. Current research reveals that blue, fin, bowhead and other whales also sing, mostly in tones below human hearing. Using sound for navigation, some whales hunt in deep, high pressure waters while others negotiate migrations across entire ocean basins. Thoroughly updated to reflect the latest findings, this book is perfect for anyone curious about the cetacean world. Budding whale students will gain insights on how to research whales, dolphins and porpoises as well as how to save at-risk species and their increasingly damaged habitat. Encyclopedia of Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises includes: detailed profiles of 93 current species of cetaceans (3 more than in the previous edition) the story of the newly discovered Sato's beaked whale, a small black whale from the North Pacific related to the Baird's beaked whale fascinating sidebars that bring to life cetacean society and culture an enlightening discussion of the differences between dolphins and porpoises new information on the history and impact of whaling illustrations of each species by renowned artist Uko Gorter, including the three new species named in the past five years color photographs by world-famous marine photographer Brandon Cole, among others.