First published in 1979, this guide has become the standard resource for scientists, divers, and spearfishers interested in the fishes of the tropical Pacific Coast. The authors have revised and updated this edition to include the most current taxonomic information, additional species descriptions, and new illustrations.

-91 dive sites described in detail - Depth range and conditions of the sites - Full color photos throughout - Marine life descriptions and behavior - Getting there; driving and flying - Dive facilities - Accommodations; hotels and campsites - Launch ramps - Easy to read Maps - History of the areas This book is the most complete and user friendly guide to diving and snorkeling along Baja California's Sea of Cortez. Covering the terrain and marine life of 91 of Baja's best dive sites, some of them little known, are described in detail. They include sites throughout the offshore islands along Baja's peninsula and also shore diving along its coastline. Whether you are a serious diver or a holiday snorkeler, Diving and Snorkeling the Sea of Cortez will prove an invaluable reference book. The 1000 mile Sea of Cortez hugs the Baja peninsula. Known for its desolate offshore islands and incredible marine life, it lures divers and snorkelers from all over the world. This great sea along with the Revillagigedos give divers chance encounters with the giant manta rays, hammerhead sharks, playful sea lions, wrecks and marine life endemic only to the Sea of Cortez. Accommodations along this great stretch of land range from luxury resorts to campsites with huge stretches of sparkling deserted beaches and unspoiled reefs. The Sea of Cortez is unique. It is a place where once you visit; you know you'll be back. -REVISED SECOND EDITION-

This color field guide describes 189 species of fish and 65 species of invertebrates that are commonly observed by divers and snorkelers in this region. Each species is illustrated with a color photo. The narrative includes identification, maximum size, habitat, geographic range, and, in most cases, natural history notes.

"Intrepid conservation detective story." --Nature "A lucid, informed, and gripping account...a must-read." --Science "Passionate...a heartfelt and alarming tale." --Publishers Weekly "Gripping...a well-told and moving tale of environmentalism and conservation." --Kirkus "Compelling." --Library Journal In 2006, vaquita, a diminutive porpoise making its home in the Upper Gulf of California, inherited the dubious title of world's most endangered marine mammal. Vaquita have been in decline for decades, dying in illegal gillnets intended for a giant fish, totoaba. Author Brooke Bessesen takes us to the Upper Gulf region in search of answers to a heart-wrenching dilemma. When diplomatic efforts to save the porpoise failed, Bessesen followed a scientific team in a binational effort to capture remaining vaquita and breed them in captivity--the only hope for their survival. In this fast-paced, soul-searing tale, she learned that there are no easy answers when extinction is profitable.