This text describes the varieties and distribution of sea snakes, what they eat and what eats them, how they reproduce and grow, and how they cope with excess salt and scarcity of freshwater. It also discusses how they adjust to diving at depth, and describes the nature of their venom.

Ranging from crocodiles and penguins to seals and whales, this synthesis explores the function and evolution of sensory systems in animals whose ancestors lived on land. It explores the dramatic transformation of smell, taste, sight, hearing, and balance that occurred as lineages of reptiles, birds, and mammals returned to aquatic environments.

Introduces the banded sea snake, also known as the sea krait, and describes its habitat, appearance, and habits.

Ages 9 to 12 years. A must-have for any home or school library, this fascinating book highlights 30 of the most fascinating creatures in the sea. The beautiful full-colour photographs and interesting descriptions highlighting the design features of each creature make this book a must read.

Australia’s venomous snakes are widely viewed as the world’s most deadly and are regarded with cautious curiosity, fascination and, regrettably, fear. Australia’s Dangerous Snakes examines the biology, natural history, venom properties and bite treatment of medically important venomous marine and terrestrial snakes. It contains comprehensive identification profiles for each species, supported by keys and photographs. In addition to their medical importance, the environmental roles of these snakes and the threats that are causing the decline of many of these reptiles are discussed. Drawing on the authors’ experience in the fields of herpetology, toxinology and clinical medicine, this book stimulates respect and admiration and dispels fear of Australia’s fascinating snakes. Australia’s Dangerous Snakes will provide hours of rewarding reading and valuable information for anyone interested in Australia’s unique wildlife and natural history, and will be an essential reference for herpetologists, toxinologists, physicians, zoo personnel and private snake collectors.

A comprehensive volume of marine biology, medicine and toxicology.