Written by renowned biologist John E. Randall, Surgeonfishes of Hawaiʻi and the World provides comprehensive descriptions and color photographs of all 80 species of surgeonfish. There are 80 surgeonfishes in the world, including some of our most beautiful marine fishes. Most species are found on coral reefs in tropic seas; twenty-four occur in the Hawaiian Islands. This book illustrates all 80 species, many with color photographs of the juveniles as well. Each species account accompanying the photographs is divided into three parts, one to provide the characteristics to determine the identification, the second for the distribution of the species in the world, and the third for remarks on the derivation of the scientific name, where the fish lives, what may be known of its biology, etc.

The introductory part of the book explains how to identify surgeonfishes and summarizes our general knowledge of the ecology of these fishes—their habitat, food habits, reproduction, development, age, and growth. There are separate sections on mimicry, hybrids, biogeography, and the importance of these fishes in the aquarium trade. A glossary is provided of scientific terminology, and an extensive bibliography is included for those who may wish to know more about these fascinating fishes. The book is designed for fish watchers, underwater photographers, aquarists, and fishermen.

John E. Randall
Date of Publication: 2002
Size: 6 x 9 in.
Pages: 123
Binding: paper
ISBN: 9781566475617