Tropical Marine Ecology: A Field Guide to Belize

This planet is filled with wondrous and amazing ecosystems, from the frigid Antarctic to the urban jungle. The two most biodiverse ecosystems are tropical rainforests and coral reefs, and few scientists and explorers are envied more than those studying tropical marine ecosystems. They live and work in environments that others come to for vacation: beaches, warm water scuba diving, thousands of colorful reef fish, and even swimming with dolphins, manatees and whale sharks. Belize, with the largest barrier reef in the northern hemisphere, is a showcase for all of these. This book is designed to introduce students to basic concepts of tropical marine ecology, while specifically addressing issues relevant to Belize. No prior knowledge of marine biology or related subjects is assumed, which means that the information presented here is necessarily basic. However, references and case studies at the end of each chapter encourage readers to delve further into topics in accordance with their specific interests, knowledge and experience.