Discover the pristine yet little-known World Heritage Ningaloo Reef in the north west coastal region of Western Australia. For ten years the author has led groups of people into the blue waters of Ningaloo to swim with the majestic whale shark – the biggest fish in the ocean. Marvel at the exquisite photos, learn interesting facts and enjoy the rich first-hand stories about the reef and its colourful marine life. Ningaloo: Reflections on the Reef is enriched by the author's stunning videos of whale sharks and other sea creatures – all accessible directly from the book via QR codes. This is a unique, interactive book for nature lovers.
Getting the most from this book iii
THE NINGALOO REEF
The World Heritage Ningaloo Reef 2
A History of the Ningaloo Reef 4
Whale Sharks and the Ningaloo Reef 8
The Navy Pier 13
WHALE SHARKS
The Largest Fish 20
ECOCEAN 24
Australian Institute of Marine Science 28
Whale Shark Biology 30
Feeding Whale Sharks 32
Whale Shark Defence 34
OTHER INHABITANTS
The Humpback Whale Migration 38
Dolphins 46
Orca Kill! 50
The False Killer Invasion 54
Dugongs 56
Turtles 58
Manta Rays and Mobula Rays 62
The Pelagic Predators 66
Demersal Fish 70
Herbivorous Fish 76
Sharks 80
Tiger Sharks 84
Stingrays 89
THE WHALE SHARK INDUSTRY
The Whale Shark Industry 94
Ningaloo from the Air 104
Whale Shark Skippers 108
Whale Shark Spotters 114
Behind the Lens 119
Whale Shark Rock Stars! 122
TALES FROM THE REEF
My First Whale Shark 126
Bait Ball Bewitches Whale Shark 128
Swimming with Humpback Whales 132
The Spinners & Humpies Show 134
Oceanic Manta Rays' Dance of Love 139
Crystal Clear 144
FINAL THOUGHTS
Ningaloo: the Future 150
About the Author 154
Thanks and Acknowledgements 160
References 164
QR Code Gallery 166iki