Humanity can make short work of the oceans' creatures. In 1741, hungry explorers discovered herds of Steller's sea cow in the Bering Strait, and in less than thirty years, the amiable beast had been harpooned into extinction. It's a classic story, but a key fact is often omitted. Bering Island was the last redoubt of a species that had been decimated by hunting and habitat loss years before the
explorers set sail. As Callum M. Roberts reveals in "The Unnatural History of the S"ea, the oceans' bounty didn't disappear overnight. While today's fishing industry is ruthlessly efficient, intense exploitation began not in the modern era, or even with the dawn of industrialization, but in the eleventh century in medieval Europe. Roberts explores this long and colorful history of commercial fishing, taking readers around the world and through the centuries to witness the transformation of the seas.
Drawing on firsthand accounts of early explorers, pirates, merchants, fishers, and travelers, the book recreates the oceans of the past: waters teeming with whales, sea lions, sea otters, turtles, and giant fish. The abundance of marine life described by fifteenth century seafarers is almost unimaginable today, but Roberts both brings it alive and artfully traces its depletion. Collapsing fisheries, he shows, are simply the latest chapter in a long history of unfettered commercialization of the seas. The story does not end with an empty ocean. Instead, Roberts describes how we might restore the splendor and prosperity of the seas through smarter management of our resources and some simple restraint. From the coasts of Florida to New Zealand, marine reserves have fostered spectacular recovery of plants and animals to levels not seen in a century. They prove that history need not repeat itself: we can leave the oceans richer than we found them.

Beachcomber Seashells of the Caribbean is a work of art and photography while also filling a gap in the collection and identification of Caribbean sea shells. It has the sound basics of collecting needed for the beginner, amateur and student, while also providing a cross referenced guide to other field guides; something sorely needed by the serious collector and professional conchologist. Readers will find that this book is not simply a piece of beauty to grace the coffee table and foster discussion, but will also be able to use it as a distinct addition to their own catalogue of teaching and scientific research tools. By correlating the book to the data in 6 other key references, it enhances broadens the range of shells and enhances the ability to actually locate, classify and describe shells even beyond the scope of the one book by itself. With it's keys, pictures and page by page references, this single book can form the backbone of an entire study library for the active conchologist. Because the identification keys are based on both a visual and dichotomous approach to the classification of shells, there is a higher probability that the user will actually learn to key out shells and recognize features rather than doing the old flip through the book routine in hopes of landing on the right shell in the right family. Scientific and correct anatomical names are used, coupled to common names, throughout the book in order to build up a solid working vocabulary in the study of conchology. The anatomical features are illustrated again and again on photographs of actual seashells to assist collectors in the identifying key characteristics through repetition. A special page showing some of the features of bivalve hinges also helps the budding collector recognize certain shell families quickly by that important characteristic. Advanced collectors and amateurs, will be pleased with the multiple photographs showing field variations found within each species. By utilizing the other references and comparing photos from this variety of sources, the student gains a better perspective of species variation. The beginning shell collector will quickly become familiar with many of the common shells found on any Caribbean beach. They will acquire a common scientific vocabulary so that they will be able to converse knowledgeably with other collectors and transfer this knowledge into the study of sea shells in other parts of the world. In a short period of time the budding student will be able to branch out into the deeper complex identification of even the most obscure specimens. The millimeter scale next to each specimen makes the size of the shell obvious so that the collector will be aware that they are searching for something the size of a rice grain or a football. Enjoyment of any hobby or avocation is extremely important. Having a book with the science and vocabulary mixed in with fine macrophotography will expose the reader to some of the incomparable beauty of the Caribbean. A gateway into the study of the natural world which has enthralled the author for almost a lifetime. He certainly hopes that you fall in love with this wonderful hobby and scientific field of study.

This is a seafaring story with multiple aspects. Information gleamed by the author is from 20] years of sea-logs, is a narrative or comments by the captain of an off coming watch on an ocean vessel whereas the author was a member. By multiple aspects, I refer to facts, that while the story is based on facts, especially the strange events, the remainder I have taken the privilege of a fictional book to deviate from the "rume line." I have inserted my sense of humor whenever possible, also from events that have occurred. I have been told my sense of humor is dry but I'm positive you will have a laugh or two As a disclaimer; I end the yarn by sailing through the horizon oil spill in the northern Gulf of Mexico. I was there for the event but on a power vessel with log entries and pictures to document my participation in the failed off-shore clean-up of the mess left to us by an old ally from Europe. What is not in the book is that I contracted a lung disease from this experience. Many local good men and women did also. Furthermore, some have passed, but my rendition in the book is accurate as to the conditions at sea with as much as possible, emotions withheld. I believe that both sailor and non will enjoy this yarn and possibly learn a few things about our precious water world.

Do fiddler crabs need air? What do fiddler crabs eat? Why does the fiddler crab have a big claw? How can I catch a fiddler crab? What is the difference between a male and female fiddler crab? Can you breed fiddler crabs? Where do I buy fiddler crabs? Did you know there are over 90 different species of Fiddler crabs? Fiddler crabs exhibit complex behaviour and require a specialised environment to thrive. To care for your pet fiddler crab you must know how to prepare your tank and make sure you choose the right aquarium mates. In this easy to read guide you will find the answers to all these questions and much more. Find out how to care for your pet fiddler crabs, discover facts about the unique fiddler crab life cycle, how to feed your fiddler crabs and advice choosing the perfect fiddler crab tank mates. Includes fun fiddler facts for kids.

Broken Shells is a unique collection of photographs of broken shells along with inspirational words of wisdom.

Ranging from the arctic to the tropics, from largescale views of Australia’s barrier reef to close-up images of sea turtles, From Above and Below is a compelling, entirely unique journey through a fascinating world. Some 200 spectacular aerial images by Yann Arthus-Bertrand and striking underwater photographs by Brian Skerry offer a top-to-bottom tour of the world’s oceans, while the enlightening text covers the sea’s critical mechanisms, from currents to food chains. Inspiring interviews of some of the world’s most respected researchers and activists also offer cutting-edge insight into the many challenges, such as over-fishing and pollution, facing the oceans today. Exploring the critical and ever-evolving relationship between mankind and the ocean, From Above and Below is an unforgettable portrait of the global issue of sustainable development.

The inspiration for "Lessons From The Ocean" came as a result of many walks on the beach at sunset. It was during these "quiet times" with God that much was revealed to Donalyn about the similarities that exist between the ocean and beach, and what happens in everyday life. After a dear friend encouraged her to write these down, Donalyn realized that this could be something that would uplift, encourage and inspire others. Her wish is that you would enjoy reading it and contemplating it as much as she did actually accruing this over several years. Donalyn Knight is the Founder and President of The Spirited Athlete, Inc. She taught for 38 years at Seminole High School in Sanford, Fl and has over 16 years of extensive athletic coaching experience. While at Seminole High School, she has been awarded over 12 Coach of the Year Awards, Teacher of the Year for Seminole High School and Seminole County and was inducted into the SHS Coaches' Hall of Fame there, being presented with The Doc Terwilleger Award. This past year the school named the Outstanding Female Athlete Award after Donalyn. She has worked with Olympic and Professional athletes and served as Fellowship of Christian Athletes Liaison to the WNBA Orlando Miracle. She also worked for USAirways in the evenings for 20 years. Her love of flying, working with people and helping them with their travel needs was something she really enjoyed. Now retired from teaching and the airline, Donalyn is growing The Spirited Athlete which is in it's 8th year. The company has a motivational and inspirational product line as well as presenting college-bound athlete seminars, coaches' seminars, etc. It is obvious by her endeavors that she has a real zest for life and that is directly related to her relationship with her Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. "To serve Him above all through whatever it is that I'm doing is the highest privilege of all To God Be the Glory "

This volume reviews the experience of cooperation in five international river basins, focusing on the perceptions of risks and opportunities by decision makers in countries responding to a specific prospect of cooperation. For each basin, the analysis centered on "tipping points," or periods in time when policymakers in the countries involved were faced with a critical decision concerning water cooperation. This study was inspired, in part, by the intensified involvement of the World Bank and development partners in shared international waters, resulting in a growing interest to better understand the political economy surrounding regional cooperation deals over water. While the associated economic benefits and costs of cooperation are generally well analyzed, the perceptions of decision makers regarding political risks and opportunities have been much less explored. Responding to this knowledge gap, this study looked at the political dimension of cooperation over international waters, beginning with perceived risks. Five categories of perceived risk were analyzed: 1) Capacity and Knowledge; 2) Accountability and Voice; 3) Sovereignty and Autonomy; 4) Equity and Access; and 5) Stability and Support. All five categories of risk were found to exert a significant influence on cooperation decisions, indicating that perceived risks were a core consideration for decision makers in countries. Furthermore, cooperation was more likely when risks were reduced, or opportunities created for political gains. This has important implications for development partners' engagement in shared international waters. Partners are advised to conduct risk assessments in consultation with countries involved, and devise plans for reducing perceived risks. Suggested measures for partner action are also included. In addition to the discussions of risk and enhancing the potential for cooperation, this volume offers some important lessons on supporting cooperation. First, cooperation can take several years of planning and confidence building, often before negotiations even begin. Thus, a long-term time commitment by partners is likely required. Finally, deals are dynamic. Once a deal is reached, the situation does not become static: deals can be fragile and fall apart or evolve and grow into stronger and more sustainable arrangements. Accordingly, periodic assessments are needed to reflect changing realities and as inputs for a revised strategy.|It is often said that children have always been part of the workforce. With the onset of the industrial revolution in the nineteenth century, children were exploited under miserable conditions in factories, and a movement against child labor began. A worldwide campaign increased awareness and alerted international organizations and governments to the idea that child labor would best be replaced by child education. The current objectives of such a campaign seem simple and laudable but the issues involved are complex and questions must be answered: What actually is child labor, and what determines childhood? How many child laborers are there in the world? Is child labor restricted to developing countries or is it frequently used in order to stigmatize the non-Western world? Is regulation of labor conditions the solution or should governments and civil society opt for a radical ban? Is there a role for corporate social responsibility? Kristoffel Lieten is professor of child labour studies at the International Institute of Social Studies at the University of Amsterdam.

"If there was a price placed on clean water we might start treating it like it has value. Maybe when it's gone we'll realize we can't drink oil or money." - Dave Matthews Less than 1 percent of the world's water is fresh and potable- and no more will ever be available. Thanks to pollution, global warming, and population growth, water access is poised to become today's most explosive global issue. This book, based on the film Last Call at the Oasis by Academy Award (R)-winning director Jessica Yu, offers insights into the coming water crisis from visionary scientists, policymakers, activists, and environmentalists, including: ROBERT MORAN on how oil and mineral development pollute and divert water supplies- often beyond public scrutiny PETER H. GLEICK on discovering the"soft path" to global water security ROBERT GLENNON on how the power of markets can help protect the world's water LYNN HENNING on how a family farmer became a passionate"water activist" ALEX PRUD'HOMME on how the water crisis affects us all GARY WHITE on how innovative social and economic strategies can make clean water available even for the world's poorest people HADLEY ARNOLD AND PETER ARNOLD on how arid regions like America's Southwest can wisely husband water supplies for cities and farmers alike ROBYN BEAVERS on how today's smartest businesses are making sustainable water management a competitive advantage ZEM JOAQUIN on nine"ecofabulous" ways of saving water at home- and doing it with style BILL MCDONOUGH on how smart design can preserve water's"Endless Resourcefulness" for generations to come No resource on earth is more precious- or more endangered- than water. Last Call at the Oasis is a powerful tool for learning about the water challenges we face as well as the remarkable solutions available to us- if we have the will to use them.

Sally the sea turtle, Allen the albatross, and Pat the pelican are sea animals looking for food. How do sea animals know what to eat? What happens when animals eat plastic instead of food? Discover the dangers of "pesky plastic" in our oceans. Learn what you can do to help Sally, Allen, Pat and all the sea animals survive "pesky plastic." This ecology-centered story is a wonderful way to begin conversations with children about how each person's actions directly affect the environment. This book includes activities, and information about sea animals, recycling, and community activism. Age appropriate for grades K-3.

An account of the author's August 2007 solitary one-week stay in one of Provincetown's historic dune shacks with a discussion of the shacks' history. Delightful photographs by the author and others.

The ocean is in danger. Someone has stolen the massive diamond that gives King Neptune his power to protect the oceans. Now, he has to assemble a team of sea creatures to recover the diamond before the seas go dark forever and the planet slowly dies. The Ocean Protectors soon discover that the future of the earth and ALL living things hinges on more than just returning the diamond. The crew will have to test their own unique skills at every turn to reverse the damage being done to the seas. And Duckey has to set aside his typewriter and face his greatest fear WATER When budding journalist Duckey is asked by King Neptune to cover the story of saving the earth s oceans, he ends up doing more than reporting the details. Duckey becomes an important member of the Ocean Protectors themselves. The future of the ocean and the planet is relying on a group of misfits. Duckey and the Ocean Protectors is both a fun-filled adventure and a lesson in discovery as these unlikely heroes each learns about their individual power, worth, and talent.

In this humorous guide to sea shell collecting, the author writes about how to find shells, the best beaches, how to identify shells with illustrations, and other topics of interest to shellers, as well as sharing her adventures in search of perfect shells. She wrote this book because of the many shell lovers who have looked at her collection and exclaimed, "How did you find that?" or "Where?" or "Did you really find all these shells?" This book has all the answers.

Coursing through the Atlantic Ocean is a powerful current with a force 300 times that of the mighty Amazon. Ulanski explores the fascinating science and history of this sea highway known as the Gulf Stream, a watery wilderness that stretches from the Caribbean to the North Atlantic. Spanning both distance and time, Ulanski's investigation reveals how the Gulf Stream affects and is affected by every living thing that encounters it--from tiny planktonic organisms to giant bluefin tuna, from ancient mariners to big-game anglers. He examines the scientific discovery of ocean circulation, the role of ocean currents in the settlement of the New World, and the biological life teeming in the stream.