This major new volume is an indispensable resource, and an endlessly fascination work of reference. Clearly structured in two parts, dealing with the physical nature of oceans and the evolution and distribution of marine life, it covers all the major fields of oceanographic research. Itsaccessible treatment offers a wealth of up-to-date information on topics ranging from oceanic ridge formation and hydrothermal vents, to the rhythm and patterns of tides, currents, and weather systems, to the astonishing diversity and complex interactions of marine communities.The impact of humankind on the oceans is also discussed: with increasing demand for resources, the world's oceans are set to become the 'final frontier' for intensive scientific research. However, the seas are not inexhaustible, nor are they infinitely resilient; disasters such as Exxon Valdez havebrought home the enormous costs of marine pollution. The Encyclopedia of the Oceans considers the options and looks at the sustainable use of resources and conservation of marine life. The stunning photographs - many of them illustrating exciting new underwater research projects, brilliant explanatory artworks and maps, together with the clear, authoritative text combine to make this an invaluable work of reference on a unique, vital, but little understood component of ourplanet.

The oceans cover 70% of the Earth’s surface, and are critical components of Earth’s climate system. This new edition of Encyclopedia of Ocean Sciences, Six Volume Set summarizes the breadth of knowledge about them, providing revised, up to date entries as well coverage of new topics in the field. New and expanded sections include microbial ecology, high latitude systems and the cryosphere, climate and climate change, hydrothermal and cold seep systems. The structure of the work provides a modern presentation of the field, reflecting the input and different perspective of chemical, physical and biological oceanography, the specialized area of expertise of each of the three Editors-in-Chief. In this framework maximum attention has been devoted to making this an organic and unified reference. Represents a one-stop. organic information resource on the breadth of ocean science research Reflects the input and different perspective of chemical, physical and biological oceanography, the specialized area of expertise of each of the three Editors-in-Chief New and expanded sections include microbial ecology, high latitude systems and climate change Provides scientifically reliable information at a foundational level, making this work a resource for students as well as active researches

Few creatures have captured the imaginations of so many for so long as have monsters of the deep. Their history has been surprisingly consistent, the author notes. Most began as myths and then acquired a sense of reality when the existence of creatures resembling those chronicled in legend was documented. Ellis (Men and Whales) gives a superb account of marine monsters and their attendant myths, sightings, scientific discovery and biology. He describes only the best known and the best documented. He traces the mermaid to the manatee and dugong, Leviathan to the sperm whale, kraken to the giant squid and polyp to the octopus (sharks, however, remain sharks). He examines these monsters in art, literature and film, taking Jules Verne and Victor Hugo to task for their ignorance of biology, hysterical fantasy and unmitigated malice. Herman Melville, Arthur C. Clarke and Peter Benchley get better ratings. Of all the sighted monsters, only the giant squid (Architeuthis) retains its mythological and cryptozoological status, for its very existence is shrouded in mystery. Sharks have had a bad reputation throughout history, but until Jaws (1974) they did not figure prominently in literature. At the end of this engaging book, Ellis confesses to skepticism: "monsters, if they exist, have more to fear from us than we do from them.

Discusses the world's oceans, the animals that live in them, and the threats they face from overfishing, pollution, and global warming.

Based on the research findings of 60 years, the author describes the origins of the Agulhas Current, its behaviour, its influence on the adjacent continental shelf, its effect on local weather and its role in linking the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. The text is well-illustrated and includes asides on the history of research on the Current. An exhaustive bibliography gives easy access to present knowledge on this important current system.

From the shimmering surface to the darkest depths, this breathtaking visual encyclopedia presents our blue planet as never before. Stunning photography, accessible information, and fascinating facts are spilling over in this essential guide to the oceans. Take a dip in all the world's waters to experience their incredible diversity. Make a splash in the icy Arctic waters before warming up in the tropical Indian Ocean. Experience the super size of mighty whales compared to swarms of tiny krill. Cast your eyes to the skies to see circling sea birds before diving down to meet mysterious creatures of the deep. Awash with comprehensive information and fascinating detail, Ocean: A Children's Encyclopedia is the perfect choice for school projects, marine enthusiasts, and water babies everywhere.

Explore the deep blue as you’ve never known before with this children's encyclopedia perfect for a young explorer. Forming part of a fantastic series of kid's educational books, this bold and brilliant kid's encyclopedia uses ground-breaking CGI imagery to reveal the world as you've never seen it before. Informative, diverse in subject matter, easy to read and brimming with beautiful graphics, young learners can explore the incredibly detailed cross-sections and cutaways that reveal the inner workings of our incredible oceans. This charming children’s encyclopedia opens the world in new ways, with: - Packed with facts, charts, timelines, and illustrations that cover a vast range of topics. - Encompassing a visual approach with illustrations, photographs and extremely detailed 3D CGI images. - Crystal clear text distills the key information. - DK's encyclopedias are fact-checked by subject experts to offer accuracy beyond online sources of information. This fully-updated edition of Knowledge Encyclopedia Ocean! is the perfect encyclopedia for children aged 9-12, ideal for inquisitive minds, covering the topics of ocean science, seashores, polar oceans, ocean maps and so much more! Jam-packed with fun facts about sea creatures and ocean environments, you can explore sharks, jellyfish, turtles, dolphins, octopuses, penguins, and seahorses, fish and an array of other animals that call the ocean their home. Explore, Discover And Learn! DK's Knowledge Encyclopedia Ocean! uncovers the marvels of the underwater world in unprecedented detail and with stunning realism. Encompassing engaging facts about animal behavior under the water, including a closer look at the geography, geology, and ecology that lies beneath the waves from the dramatic landscapes of the deepest trench and towering underwater chimneys, to coastal coral reefs and kelp forests teeming with life, you can spend quality time diving into the deep blue with your children, accompanied by impressive visuals to engage their senses. A must-have volume for curious kids with a thirst for knowledge, this enthralling ocean encyclopedia is structured in such a way that your child can read a bit at a time, and feel comfortable to pause and ask questions. Doubling up as the perfect gift for young readers, who are always asking questions about the underwater world. At DK, we believe in the power of discovery. This thrilling kid’s encyclopedia is part of the Knowledge Encyclopedia educational series. Celebrate your child’s curiosity as they complete the collection and discover diverse facts about the world around them. Explore the animal kingdom like never before with Knowledge Encyclopedia Animal! Travel back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the earth with Knowledge Encyclopedia Dinosaur! And hone your knowledge on how the human body works with Knowledge Encyclopedia Human Body! Whatever topic takes their fancy, there’s an encyclopedia for everyone!