• Places key concepts and issues from a diverse range of marine systems in a real world context
• Carefully structured into well-defined, logical sections to facilitate ease and flexibility of use
• A modern perspective emphasizes those factors impacting upon the marine environment that are of global importance and concern to marine ecologists today
• Rich pedagogy highlights and elucidates important information to ensure the text is easy to understand and learn from
• Online Resource Centre features additional resources for lecturers and students to enhance the educational value of the text

New to this Edition:

• This 2nd Edition has been revised by 30%, including an entirely new chapter on secondary production. Two new authors have been added to the team, and all chapters have been updated to include key works, issues and topics published since 2005
• Enhanced coverage of socioeconomic issues and climate change
• New current focus boxes give the reader an in-depth taste of contemporary research in marine ecology
• New Journal Club encourages students to engage with primary literature and develop critical thinking and reading skills

   
The oceans cover the majority of the Earth's surface; they influence our climate and provide a valuable source of food to billions of people. Yet despite its fundamental impact on our lives, many aspects of the marine environment remain a mystery to us.

Marine Ecology: Processes, Systems, and Impacts offers a carefully balanced and stimulating survey of marine ecology, introducing the key processes and systems from which the marine environment is formed, and the issues and challenges which surround its future. 

Opening with an overview of the processes and interactions which are central to an understanding of marine ecology, the book goes on to explore the diverse systems from which the marine environment is composed, from estuaries to seabeds, the deep sea to polar regions. The final section examines human activities that impact upon the marine environment - fisheries, aquaculture, pollution, and global warming - before considering measures that can be taken to mitigate their adverse effects on this complex, fragile environment. 

The importance of understanding and conserving the marine environment has never been more apparent. Marine Ecology: Processes, Systems, and Impacts is an essential resource for any student wishing to develop a well balanced, informed understanding of this fascinating subject.

· Striking full colour illustrations and photographs bring visual impact to the material presented

· Many detailed case studies enliven the text and add a further level of depth and insight

· Key concepts and issues are treated from a global perspective, using examples from around the world