A Diver's Guide to Reef Life

Book excerpt: A Diver's Guide to Reef Life is set to become the indispensable companion for reef divers wishing to identify, photograph or learn about the myriad of fascinating creatures who inhabit the world's tropical reefs and mangroves. The definitive and concise descriptions are drawn from the authors' first-hand experiences and are sub-divided under the headings of distribution, size, habitat and life habits. Each of the book's 1200 listings are also accompanied by stunningly clear and detailed photographs, further facilitating the identification of species. The main body of the book is also complemented by two full indexes, one cataloguing species' common names and another for their latin titles. In addition, the authors also impart advice on how to use underwater cameras to capture beautiful images such as those presented within. Whilst the guide is primarily focused on the tropics' many species of bony fish, this attention is not at the expense of the reptiles, crustaceans and cartilaginous fish who also inhabit these fascinating sub-aquatic ecosystems. A detailed introduction also considers reef formation, history and ecological requirements. Conveniently sized to fit in any travel bag and printed on heavy-weight gloss paper, A Diver's Guide to Reef Life is the practical, affordable and definitive guide that will answer every question the inquisitive diver may choose to ask of it.