Cold-Water Corals
Cambridge University Press, 4/30/2009
EAN 9780521884853, ISBN10: 0521884853
Hardcover, 352 pages, 24.7 x 17.4 x 2.1 cm
Language: English
There are more coral species in deep, cold-waters than in tropical coral reefs. This broad-ranging treatment is the first to synthesise current understanding of all types of cold-water coral, covering their ecology, biology, palaeontology and geology. Beginning with a history of research in the field, the authors describe the approaches needed to study corals in the deep sea. They consider coral habitats created by stony scleractinian as well as octocoral species. The importance of corals as long-lived geological structures and palaeoclimate archives is discussed, in addition to ways in which they can be conserved. Topic boxes explain unfamiliar concepts, and case studies summarise significant studies, coral habitats or particular conservation measures. Written for professionals and students of marine science, this text is enhanced by an extensive glossary, online resources, and a unique collection of colour photographs and illustrations of corals and the habitats they form.
Preface
1. History and research approaches
2. Cold-water corals
3. Biology
4. Reefs and mounds
5. Habitats and ecology
6. Palaeontology
7. Corals as archives
8. Impacts and conservation
9. References
Glossary
Index.
'Roberts, Wheeler, Freiwald and Cairns have produced a remarkable text that will set the standard for many years to come. From the early discoveries of these remarkable organisms to details of biology, distribution and current research, this is a comprehensive volume bringing together hitherto scattered information.' Professor Imants (Monty) G. Priede, Oceanlab, University of Aberdeen