The Biology of the Southern Ocean

The first comprehensive, single-author synthesis of the current state of knowledge of the biota of one of the world's most important oceans. Following a description of the physico-chemical environment, the plants, microbes, animals and habitats of the Southern Ocean are considered in a logical sequence.

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The Southern Ocean supports a teeming array of life, ranging from microscopic plants to mighty whales. Whilst our knowledge of the biology of these waters has been accumulating since the first voyages of discovery in the eighteenth century, there is yet to be a comprehensive, single-author synthesis of the current state of that knowledge. This book sets out to correct that deficiency. The volume opens with a description of the physico-chemical environment, which is followed by a logical sequence of chapters, beginning with primary production and ending with the higher consumers. Chapters on selected ecosystems and ecosystem dynamics then precede a final section which considers the exploitation, conservation and management of the ocean's resources. An epilogue provides a fascinating insight into the changing view of the Southern Ocean ecosystem over the past twenty years.