Reference Reviews

Lawrence Looks at Books

Encyclopedia of Marine Science. C. Reid Nichols and Robert G. Williams. 626p. New York: Facts on File, 2009. 978-0-8160-5022-2; 2007-45166. $85.

This interdisciplinary encyclopedia explores the many approaches to marine science. From archaeology to zoology, the variety of research methods and fields that scientists have used to expand our understanding of the world’s oceans are explained. More than 540 entries include a tour of the major oceans, seas, gulfs, bays and lakes. On visits to the Great Rift Valley and deep water trenches, the reader investigates the geology of the oceans, from tsunamis and tectonic plates to magma and minerals. Entries on everything from coral, crabs and plankton to whales and other sea mammals highlight the extraordinary diversity of life in the oceans. The physics of the oceans is studied in articles on tides, currents and waves. The relationship of the oceans and the weather is related in entries on hurricanes, El Niño and other meteorological topics. From sextants to sonar, traditional uses of the oceans are explained in entries on navigation, boats and fishing. The exploitation of the oceans for other commercial, industrial and military purposes also is explained. From drill ships and oil rigs to ice breaking and tide gauges, these attempts at commercial exploitation as well as several research projects are highlighted in 20 side bar essays. Other entries also explore are modern attempts to control pollution, the affects of global warming and the importance of marine sanctuaries. Almost every entry cites print and online resources for additional information. More than 150 illustrations and numerous appendices on marine laboratories, organisms, resources and geographic features support the text. In short, this volume provides an excellent introduction for those students interested in exploring the marine sciences as a field of study or a career. This volume will serve both academic and public libraries.