A beautifully illustrated newly revised guide to the underwater world of the Earth's oceans.

Introducing the most comprehensive, visual, and accessible ocean encyclopedia available on the market!

Ocean is illustrated with a blend of beautiful and informative artworks, maps, and photography, it is a broad-ranging, in-depth guide to both physical oceanography and marine life.

Thoroughly updated to include the latest research on ocean science and profiles of newly discovered species, Ocean remains an indispensable, all-encompassing visual guide to the marine world.

Dive deep into the depths of these pages as you explore:

• Unique illustrated directory sections spotlight important sites and species
• Double-page feature spreads explore interaction between people and the environment
• 16-page picture essay and 13 double-page images showcase the best in ocean photography
• Covers physical oceanography, marine biology, and the impact humans are having on the oceans
• Reliable reference thoroughly authenticated by the American Museum of Natural History

A comprehensive introduction explains important principles and processes, from the geology of the seafloor to the chemistry of seawater. The next two chapters look at key environments - from the seashore out to the open ocean - and the main groups of ocean life. The final chapter is a detailed, 60-page atlas of the world's oceans and seas, illustrated with maps compiled from satellite measurements of the ocean floor!

More than 285,000 copies have been sold since publication of the first edition in 2006, but now thoroughly updated to include the latest research on ocean science and profiles of newly discovered species, Ocean remains an indispensable, all-encompassing visual guide to the marine world.

A must-have volume for readers aged 14+, whether students looking for an introduction to the scientific study of the oceans, or schools and colleges looking for a library purchase to support students of geography and Earth sciences. Doubling up as a perfect gift purchase for the ocean lover in your life, this reliable reference book can be enjoyed by the entire family!