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

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.

From the deepest, widest ocean to the tiniest puddle, this beautiful compendium takes young readers on an enthralling journey through the aquatic world, meeting amazing animals, ingenious plants, and much more along the way. Stunning photography and gorgeous illustrations complement storybook descriptions about each lifeform, and children can uncover hundreds of fascinating facts as they read. Did you know that elephant seals that can hold their breath underwater for more than an hour, or that the Victoria Amazonica water lily can support the weight of an adult, or that the brown basilisk reptile can run across water? Discover the science of how plants have learnt to live, feed, and breathe in water, and take a look at the unique challenges of distinct ecosystems on feature spreads about rivers, lakes, wetlands, and more. From sharks and sailfish, to bulrushes and beetles, there's something for everyone in this celebration of all things aquatic.

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

From the shimmering surface to the darkest depths, this breathtaking visual encyclopedia presents our blue planet as never before. Stunning photography, accessible information, and fascinating facts are spilling over in this essential guide to the oceans. Take a dip in all the world's waters to experience their incredible diversity. Make a splash in the icy Arctic waters before warming up in the tropical Indian Ocean. Experience the super size of mighty whales compared to swarms of tiny krill. Cast your eyes to the skies to see circling sea birds before diving down to meet mysterious creatures of the deep. Awash with comprehensive information and fascinating detail, Ocean: A Children's Encyclopedia is the perfect choice for school projects, marine enthusiasts, and water babies everywhere.

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.

Examining the creatures that inhabit our seas, rivers, lakes and oceans, this encyclopedia takes a journey through the underwater world, uncovering the thousands of species that live and breed in the aquatic environment.