What would you do if faced with a school of sharks in a feeding frenzy? Find out in this book, unquestionably the most authoritative compact guide to the world of underwater animals that are poisonous, venomous, and electric. It is an excellent practical handbook for sailors, marine biologists, ecologists, naturalists, physicians, students, and scuba divers-in short, anyone interested in the denizens of shallow marine waters and the deep. This new edition describes and fully illustrates these dangerous marine animals, their noxious effects, treatment of ailments resulting from them, and, most importantly, how to avoid mishaps. More than two hundred illustrations, including many color photographs new to this edition, show the animals in their true forms and in their natural habitats. Dangerous Marine Animals is the culmination of more than forty years of intensive research by Dr. Bruce Halstead, a renowned marine biologist/toxicologist, who has traveled and studied marine creatures in over 150 countries.

Aquatic animals possess amazing defensive and offensive specialisations. Many, like the shark, are beautiful to behold in their native environment. In over 470 colourful photographs, this book captures the beauty of these creatures and offers a rich source of facts about them. There are sections dealing with their identifying features, biology, and habitat, as well as a section on prevention, first aid, and emergency procedures. There are also 11 colour maps, a glossary, and suggested readings. Included are: sharks, rays, and other wound-producing animals; aquatic animals that sting; invertebrates and vertebrates poisonous to eat; electric fishes and human parasitic catfish.