A richly illustrated, comprehensive guide to the world’s most spectacular marine environments. The book explores both the depths of the oceans and the remote beauty of islands, revealing the hidden ecosystems that lie beneath and the forces that shape them. Key themes and content include: Coastal seas and their abundance – an in-depth look at how coastal waters teem with life, from fish and seaweed to crustaceans; Coral reefs (underwater coral cities) – detailed sections show reef structure, biodiversity and the ecological importance of coral communities; Islands and their ecosystems – how islands form, their unique flora and fauna, and why they’re biological hotspots; Marine biology and ecology – the book provides a broad, accessible overview of ocean life, ecology and geographic diversity; Maps and illustrations – it’s richly illustrated with diagrams, maps and colour images that help bring the ocean’s mysteries to life; Science for general readers – written for a broad audience by the Reader’s Digest Association, making complex marine science both readable and engaging. Ideal for nature lovers, armchair explorers and students who want a visually compelling introduction to the marine world. Great as a coffee‑table book, its mix of gorgeous imagery and fascinating science makes it both informative and decorative. Helps foster a deeper appreciation for ocean conservation by showing not just what’s down there, but how interconnected our planet’s waters really are. Good condition. Hardcover, a large book at 28cm x 22cm, 367 pages.