The Encyclopedia of Sharks [Paperback]

Steve Parker (Author), Jane Parker (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 1, 1999

Here are the actual facts that dispel the myths and legends surrounding the feared and misunderstood shark. With full-color photographs on every page plus maps and illustrations, "The Encyclopedia of Sharks" documents every aspect of these beautiful animals, the myths and legends that surround them, the threat that we as humans pose to them, and how the species has evolved.

The dynamic and authoritative text includes information on:
-- anatomy and physiology
-- reproduction, courtship and mating
-- how they hunt
-- what they eat
-- migration routes
-- their extraordinary senses and skills
-- their struggle to survive
-- shark conservation efforts

Chapters such as Shark Success, Ecology and Biology, Sense and Supersense, Design for Living, Design for Killing, and More Sharks -- or Fewer? encourage readers to respect the complex shark for its organic intricacy and its ability to adapt and survive. When better understood, sharks will be less feared and left alone to play their unique role in the ocean world. "The Encyclopedia of Sharks" informs, educates and amazes readers of all ages about these awesome members of the animal kingdom.

This information-packed book also includes:
-- charts
-- sidebars
-- index
-- glossary
-- more than 200 color photographs
-- maps
-- diving sites and aquariums to view sharks
-- complete chart of shark taxonomy

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

This reference, which provides comprehensive information on sharks and their relatives, should help readers gain a much better appreciation of this special group of ancient fishes, probably the most maligned group of animals in our popular culture. The text consists of two-page articles, each covering a different aspect of sharks, including evolution, taxonomy, behavior, geographical ranges, reproduction, physiology, and the shark's place in mythology. Enhanced by many photographs, sidebars, and charts, these short articles are to read and enjoy; the writing style is aimed at high school and nonscientist adults. A good index and excellent glossary round out the book, which lacks only a bibliography. Recommended for high school, college, and public libraries, especially those without strong marine biology collections.AMargaret A. Rioux, MBL/WHOI Lib., Woods Hole, MA
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

The perennially popular sharks provide ample material for many books, and this new effort is a good introduction to the biology of these predatory fishes. Sharks, the terrifying cold-blooded killing machines of myth and legend, fascinate because of their mystery when coming out of the depths and seizing their prey. Improving the shark's image by being realistic and sensible about them is one of the stated goals of this work, and the authors have succeeded admirably. In seven chapters, divided into short sections, they discuss the evolution of sharks, their senses, internal organs, behavior, foods and feeding, and reproduction. Well illustrated with photographs, color drawings, maps, and diagrams, the text is basic yet informative in discussing sharks as a group. A list of aquariums with captive shark displays and areas where interested readers can dive with sharks follows the main body of the text. The lack of a bibliography is a weakness, but overall this will be a good start for readers interested in sharks. Nancy Bent

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 192 pages
• Publisher: Firefly Books (October 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1552093247
• ISBN-13: 978-1552093245
• Product Dimensions: 11.9 x 9 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.4 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 3.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,426,782 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

23 of 23 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Not What I Expected, September 14, 2004

By 

Mako (North Carolina) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Encyclopedia of Sharks (Paperback)

I have to say, I was a bit dissapointed when I got this book. The book consists of the characteristics of sharks IN GENERAL. Unfortunately, not all sharks are the same, so a lot is left out. The pictures are at best average, and are mainly of sharks that you could see at Ripley's aquarium. This book DOES NOT describe the different kinds of sharks. It is a basic, vague overview of sharks. If you would like a book that describes the different kinds of sharks and has better pictures, I suggest a book called "Sharks". It is also published by Firefly books and is probably more of what you are looking for.

21 of 21 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Great Book, March 12, 2000

By 

Dave (Orlando Fl) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Encyclopedia of Sharks (Paperback)

This is a very good book. It contains lots of color photographs and has some great information.It provides a general insight to the anatomy of the shark, our relationships with them, the classification of all of the shark species, and some handy info on where you can best find sharks in the wild. The book lacked some of the more indepth information that i was looking for, being a more general introduction to sharks rather than a more detailed book. However, what you are looking for in a shark book may be different from what i was, and this book would suit your needs well. I would highly recommend it too any person who is just getting in to sharks (well worth your money), but for other people who already know more than the general info about sharks, there are better books out there. Your money would not be poorly spent, as this is a good book for all, but there are more informational books (Sharks in Question is one of the best i have read).

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Inaccurate information, July 31, 2007

By 

fish doctor "marine biologist" (St. Petersburg, Fl) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Encyclopedia of Sharks (Paperback)

At first glance this book seems to be a great overview of sharks with lots of great pictures. However, it does give some inaccurate information. In chapter 4 they discuss shark hearing and claim that they have otoliths, when in fact they do not. Otoliths, which sense vibrations and pressure changes are only found in ostyichthes (bony fish), not elasmobranches (sharks, skates, and rays). I haven't read cover to cover, but who knows what else could be inaccurate...