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The Biology of Sharks and Rays is a comprehensive resource on the biological and physiological characteristics of the cartilaginous fishes: sharks, rays, and chimaeras. In sixteen chapters, organized by theme, A. Peter Klimley covers a broad spectrum of topics, including taxonomy, morphology, ecology, and physiology. For example, he explains the body design of sharks and why the ridged, toothlike denticles that cover their entire bodies are present on only part of the rays' bodies and are absent from those of chimaeras. Another chapter explores the anatomy of the jaws and the role of the muscles and teeth in jaw extension, seizure, and handling of prey. The chapters are richly illustrated with pictures of sharks, diagrams of sensory organs, drawings of the body postures of sharks during threat and reproductive displays, and maps showing the extent of the species' foraging range and long-distance migrations. Each chapter commences with an anecdote from the author about his own personal experience with the topic, followed by thought-provoking questions and a list of recommended readings in the scientific literature.
The Biology of Sharks and Rays will be a useful textbook for advanced ichthyology students as well as an encyclopedic source for those seeking a greater understanding of these fascinating creatures.
1. An Introduction to the Cartilaginous Fishes
2. Evolutionary History
3. Body Design and Swimming Modes
4. Water and Ionic Regulation
5. Warming of the Body
6. Sense of Smell: Chemoreception
7. Sense of Hearing: Mechanoreception
8. Sense of Sight: Photoreception
9. Sense of Magnetic Fields: Electroreception / Magnetoreception
10. Brain Organization and Intelligence
11. Courtship and Reproduction
12. Feeding Behavior and Biomechanics
13. Diet and Growth
14. Daily Movements, Home Range, and Migration
15. Cartilaginous Fishes and Humans
16. Fisheries and Conservation
A. Peter Klimley is adjunct professor in the Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation and director of the Biotelemetry Laboratory at the University of California, Davis. He is the author of The Secret Life of Sharks.
"A. Peter Klimley has been studying the biology of sharks for decades. In this book, he combines this extensive research experience with that of others to produce a solid reference for every shark enthusiast."
- Gregory Skomal, The Shark Handbook: The Essential Guide for Understanding the Sharks of the World
