The waters around Australia, the world s smallest continent, are home to the greatest diversity of sharks and rays on Earth. Fully 100 of these sea creatures (along with their little-known relatives, the chimaerids) have been named or described since the first edition of this book the biggest revision of the Class Chondrichthyes since the time of Linneaus. This second edition of "Sharks and Rays of Australia" brings more than 300 of these species to life in newly commissioned, full-color illustrations.

Here, in precisely painted detail, are the weird silvery ghost shark and the remarkably camouflaged ornate wobbegong; spurdogs and swell sharks; the primitive frilled shark and the blacktip, a fast swimmer capable of leaping out of the water like a dolphin. Peter Last and John Stevens review the major shake-ups in the elasmobranch family tree sorting out, for instance, dogfishes and skates and include updated family keys, the latest information about species ranges, and new distribution maps. Extensively revised species descriptions reflect additional fisheries and newly gleaned life history and biological information all essential to conservation efforts as sharks die in commercial bycatches and end up on restaurant menus. An essential tool for conservation biologists trying to save threatened sharks, now under siege worldwide, this marvelous volume will also appeal to fish biologists, divers, naturalists, commercial and recreational fishermen, and anyone with an appreciation for these ancient evolutionary survivors.

50 Things to Do at the Beach transforms a day in the sand and sun into a meaningful and inspiring return to nature. Environmental scientist and professional surfer Easkey Britton teaches us how to peek into the mysterious deep, harness the calming nature of the sea, and engage in fun play, like wave running and swimming. The latest addition to our Explore More series, 50 Things to Do at the Beach shows us how to enjoy the many health benefits of time spent by the sea and give back to the waters that sustain us. Kid-friendly activities make this a must-have for families enjoying time together by the sea, ocean, or lake. Vacationers and seadwellers alike will find new and unexpected ways to enjoy the water. Each section is beautifully illustrated to explain the activities and bring the message to life. Surf's up!

The waters that surround Seychelles are home to over 1,000 species of fish and 300 species of coral. The islands are visited by giant Whale Sharks and Manta Rays, and are home to the critically endangered Hawksbill and Green Turtles. Its warm tropical waters and coral reefs teeming with fish mean that Seychelles is a popular diving destination. This lavishly illustrated book showcases the extraordinary marine environment of Seychelles' islands. The diverse marine habitats, including coral reefs, granite seascapes, mangroves and seagrass beds, are home to vibrant communities of marine fauna and flora. Underwater Eden encapsulates the wonder of Seychelles' seas and highlights the creatures that call them home. With the effects of climate change becoming increasingly apparent throughout the world's oceans, the authors' stunning photographs capture the beauty of Seychelles waters while they are still vibrant and relatively undisturbed. Chapters on ecosystems, turtles, fishes, Marine Protected Areas and conservation describe and illustrate the marvels of this underwater world.