Everyone’s heard of the Great Whites. But most people know little of the hundreds of other types of sharks that inhabit the world’s oceans. Written by two of the world’s leading authorities and superbly illustrated by wildlife artist Marc Dando, this is the first comprehensive field guide to all 440-plus shark species. Color plates illustrate all species, and detailed accounts include diagnostic line drawings and a distribution map for each species. Introductory chapters treat physiology, behavior, reproduction, ecology, diet, and sharks’ interrelationships with humans.
- More than 125 original full-color illustrations for fast and accurate identification of each shark family
- Over 500 additional drawings illustrating physical features from different angles
- Clear identification information for each species with details of size, habitat, behavior, and biology
- Quick ID guide helpful for differentiating similar species
- Geographic distribution maps for each species
- For professional and amateur shark enthusiasts
Awards and Recognition
- One of Choice's Outstanding Academic Titles for 2005
Leonard Compagno is an international authority on shark taxonomy and the author of many scientific papers and books on the subject. He currently works in the South African Museum's Shark Research Centre. Marc Dando is a freelance artist specializing in marine ecology and wildlife. Sarah Fowler works in marine ecology, biodiversity, and conservation and management, with a particular focus on sharks. She cofounded the UK Shark Trust and the European Elasmobranch Association. She also serves on the Conservation Committee of the American Elasmobranch Society (based at the University of Florida).
"This is a reference anyone in any age group or level of knowledge could use easily. You don't need to be a shark fan for Sharks of the World to be a useful addition to your library: this is one book I'd recommend to any diver or naturalist any day."—Virginia Cowell, Diver Magazine
"The reader learns about shark biology (body structure, teeth and jaws, senses, life history, etc) and the interactions between sharks and people, both good and bad. This is a very nice, handy-sized guide for those interested in sharks and their conservation."—Robert E. Hoopes, Wildlife Activist
"The amazing diversity of these magnificent yet maligned animals is wonderfully represented here."—Christine Adkins, Discovery
"This exceptionally well-produced book, written by the leading authorities on shark systematics and conservation, is the only stand-alone field guide that covers all known shark species of the world. It is therefore an invaluable reference for shark scientists and enthusiasts alike. Nowhere are the identification, distribution, and conservation status of sharks more clearly presented."—Professor Dr. Marcelo R. de Carvalho, researcher of shark and ray evolution, Universidad de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
"The first field guide to cover all species of sharks, Sharks of the World is a welcome addition to the field bags of both professional and amateur naturalists. Filling a role heretofore satisfied only by owning a series of regional field guides, this volume offers one stop shopping for worldwide shark aficionados. Sharks of the World is a must-buy for anyone interested in identifying sharks."—George H. Burgess, Florida Program for Shark Research, Florida Museum of Natural History
