Sharks and rays have long held the fascination of a great many people, and as well as exploring their history, biology, environment and the myths that surround them, this book also gives practical advice on the best ways and places to see them.

The Biology of Sharks and Rays is a comprehensive resource on the biological and physiological characteristics of the cartilaginous fishes: sharks, rays, and chimaeras. In sixteen chapters, organized by theme, A. Peter Klimley covers a broad spectrum of topics, including taxonomy, morphology, ecology, and physiology. For example, he explains the body design of sharks and why the ridged, toothlike denticles that cover their entire bodies are present on only part of the rays’ bodies and are absent from those of chimaeras. Another chapter explores the anatomy of the jaws and the role of the muscles and teeth in jaw extension, seizure, and handling of prey. The chapters are richly illustrated with pictures of sharks, diagrams of sensory organs, drawings of the body postures of sharks during threat and reproductive displays, and maps showing the extent of the species’ foraging range and long-distance migrations. Each chapter commences with an anecdote from the author about his own personal experience with the topic, followed by thought-provoking questions and a list of recommended readings in the scientific literature. The book will be a useful textbook for advanced ichthyology students as well as an encyclopedic source for those seeking a greater understanding of these fascinating creatures.

The waters around Australia are home to the greatest diversity of sharks and rays on Earth. Fully 100 of these sea creatures (and their little-known relatives, the chimaerids) have been named or described since the first edition of this book. This second edition brings more than 300 of these species to life in full-color illustrations.

"Ebert has herein assembled an enormous body of knowledge about California's 43 shark species ranging from shark and human behavior to taxonomic minutiae, along with up-to-date explanations of their ecology, status and fisheries. More importantly, his Herculean effort includes the often-overlooked 25 species of skates, rays and chimaeras. That, along with the fine illustrations of Mat Squillante, should answer any question that a student, diver, natural history buff, or recreational or commercial fisher might ask."—John E. McCosker, coauthor of Great White Shark "The timing of this publication is ideal given the status of some of California's elasmobranch populations and the need for a deeper understanding of their biology, ecology, and fishery management. The book is a comprehensive treatment—if one wants to find out the latest information on any species of shark or ray off California, this is the place to go. An outstanding work!"—Gregor M. Cailliet, Professor, Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, and Director, Pacific Shark Research Center