Reviews provided by Syndetics

Library Journal Review

By first describing the uniqueness, beauty, complexity, and fragility of coral reef biomes, which collectively cover a larger area than that of North America and Eurasia combined, this book captures the attention of the reader. Ensuing chapters address the menace to reefs by industrial development, pollution, tourism, and commercial harvesting. The current magnitude of reef damage is assessed, and the actions necessary to stop their destruction discussed. Presenting many examples to substantiate their point that reef destruction is occurring at a disastrous rate, the authors make an urgent plea for strong conservational methods by governments and private organizations. Excellent photographs and a well-researched text make this book a top resource for lay readers interested in environmental or marine science topics. Highly recommended for general collections.-- Frank Reiser, Nassau Community Coll., Garden City, N.Y. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Publishers Weekly Review

Coral reefs may be the oldest ecosystems on earth; they have existed for some 450 million years and are surpassed only by rain forests in diversity. In this lavishly illustrated volume, Wells, a marine conservation consultant, and freelance journalist Hanna introduce us to the natural history of coral reefs, explaining the types of coral and the value of the reefs as breeding grounds for sea life, protection of coasts, source of medicines. They discuss the vulnerability of reefs to such natural disturbances as hurricanes and to human activity. Military installations, commercial fisheries, thermal pollution from power plants and oil have caused destruction of reefs; shell collecting and the aquarium trade have also taken a toll, as has tourism. The great number of snorkelers flocking to popular spots has devastated some reefs. Wells and Hanna present a guide for protecting reefs and a list of organizations concerned with reef conservation. All this is interesting information about an exotic ecosystem. (Feb.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved