"Coral Reefs" is a must-have for nature enthusiasts, environmentalists and ocean lovers. This book is an excellent general introduction to coral reefs and is full of fascinating facts and fabulous four-color photographs. It presents scientific insights and information in a way that is not only readable but highly enjoyable to a popular audience.
This book explores the major regions where coral reefs live, which include the Bahamas Bank in the greater Caribbean region, the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Great Barrier Reef, the largest reef structure in the world. Readers will become familiar with the interlocking web of life that the reefs support, as well as how the reefs form and grow.
About one third of the world's reefs have been killed or nearly so by abuse and overuse, and many reefs still classified as living are poor shadows of their former, vibrant selves. In "Coral Reefs", Dr. Sheppard discusses the many causes of this collapse and informs readers of the continuing threats that these living treasures face.
