Reef Coral Identification: Florida Caribbean Bahamas: 03 (Reef Set) - Softcover

The Reef Coral Identification – Florida Caribbean Bahamas by Paul Humann and Ned DeLoach, originally published in 1993, is the most comprehensive field guide ever compiled for the visual identification of corals and marine plants of the region. The new 3rd edition includes additional photographs documenting new species and growth variations. The expanded text incorporates the most current scientific research, including updated information about the diseases and reproductive behavior of Corals.

Paul's work established visual identification criteria for many marine animals. Long hours of observation, documentation, cataloguing and corresponding with dozens of taxonomic scientists were essential steps in the long process. In many instances picture/voucher specimen collection was required to make positive identifications. As a result, many of his pictures were the first ever published of living species in their natural habitat. The specimens from this work now reside in the Smithsonian's National History collection. These efforts made it possible for underwater naturalists to make valid non-impact biodiversity assessments of reef ecosystems.? In 2007 Paul received the 2006 DEMA Reaching Out Award for his lifetime achievements in the dive industry and was inducted into the International Scuba Diving Hall of Fame. In 2009, he was honored with the NOGI award for sports and education.