The definitive identification guide to the sharks of the world The shark is undeniably the 'lord of the seas', having existed unchanged for 350 million years. Not only is it the biggest of fish, it is also the best equipped for hunting down and destroying its prey. It is capable of living in all waters shallow or deep, tropical or temperate, fresh or salt, and unlike most animals, it has no natural predators apart from the Killer Whale. Set to become a classic natural history title, Collins Field Guide to Sharks describes and illustrates the world's 530 species of shark. Shark families are grouped together and for each individual species there is detailed identification information, and original colour illustration, and a distribution map showing where in the world that species can be found. Covering all aspects of these extraordinary creatures, from their behaviour, breeding, feeding and ecology, right through to the impact of humans on sharks throughout the world, this is one of the most important shark books ever written.

An updated and comprehensive guide identifying all of the world's sharks Sharks are some of the most misunderstood animals on the planet. We still have a lot to learn about these fascinating creatures, which are more seriously threatened with extinction and in greater need of conservation and management than any other major group of vertebrates. A Pocket Guide to Sharks of the World is the only field guide to identify, illustrate, and describe every known shark species. Its compact format makes it handy for many situations, including recognizing living species, fishery catches, or parts sold at markets. This expanded second edition presents lavish images, details on newly discovered species, and updated text throughout. The book contains useful sections on identifying shark teeth and the shark fins most commonly encountered in the fin trade, and takes a look at shark biology, ecology, and conservation. A Pocket Guide to Sharks of the World will be an essential resource and definitive reference for years to come. An updated guide to all of the world’s sharks Each species is illustrated and described Handy, compact format with concise text Useful sections on the identification of shark teeth and fins

"Fully revised and updated"--Back cover.

A guidebook for the naturalist, commercial or recreational fisher, outdoor enthusiast, or beachgoer covers almost all species of sharks and rays that can be found in Gulf waters, and includes information on reproduction, sensory systems, feeding, and more.

"Ebert has herein assembled an enormous body of knowledge about California's 43 shark species ranging from shark and human behavior to taxonomic minutiae, along with up-to-date explanations of their ecology, status and fisheries. More importantly, his Herculean effort includes the often-overlooked 25 species of skates, rays and chimaeras. That, along with the fine illustrations of Mat Squillante, should answer any question that a student, diver, natural history buff, or recreational or commercial fisher might ask."—John E. McCosker, coauthor of Great White Shark "The timing of this publication is ideal given the status of some of California's elasmobranch populations and the need for a deeper understanding of their biology, ecology, and fishery management. The book is a comprehensive treatment—if one wants to find out the latest information on any species of shark or ray off California, this is the place to go. An outstanding work!"—Gregor M. Cailliet, Professor, Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, and Director, Pacific Shark Research Center

Issued with four replica teeth in an enclosed plastic tray next to the book's spine.

Sharks are perhaps the most feared and misunderstood creatures on earth. They have inhabited the planet for 450 million years, and over that time they have evolved into hundreds of highly varied and fascinating species. In this comprehensive and colorful third edition, shark expert Dr. Greg Skomal takes us on a captivating tour of the world of sharks-what they are, how they evolved, and how they thrive in their marine environment. He provides close-up, detailed views of: Shark anatomy and adaptation, Shark conservation, Shark attacks, Over 450 species, And more! The Shark Handbook, 3rd Edition comes alive with vivid, full-color photography from outstanding photographic contributors. Book jacket.