Marine Biology covers the basics of marine biology with a global approach, using examples from numerous regions and ecosystems worldwide. This introductory, one-semester text is designed for non-majors. Authors Castro and Huber have made a special effort to include solid basic science content needed in a general education course, including the fundamental principles of biology, the physical sciences, and the scientific method. This science coverage is integrated with a stimulating, up-to-date overview of marine biology.

Table of Contents

Principles of Marine Science
1 The Science of Marine Biology
2 The Sea Floor
3 Chemical and Physical Features of Seawater and the World Ocean
4 Fundamentals of Biology The Organisms of the Sea
5 The Microbial World
6 Multicellular Primary Producers: Seaweeds and Plants
7 Marine Animals without a Backbone
8 Marine Fishes
9 Marine Reptiles, Birds, and Mammals Structure and Function of Marine Ecosystems
10 An Introduction to Marine Ecology
11 Between the Tides
12 Estuaries: Where Rivers Meet the Sea
13 Life on the Continental Shelf
14 Coral Reefs
15 Life Near the Surface
16 The Ocean Depths Humans and the Sea
17 Resources from the Sea
18 The Impact of Humans on the Marine Environment
19 The Oceans and Human Affairs

Appendix A Units of Measurement
Appendix B Selected Field Guides and Other Useful References for the Identification of Marine Organisms