Assessments and Conservation of Biological Diversity from Coral Reefs to the Deep Sea: Uncovering Buried Treasures and the Value of the Benthos

Assessments and Conservation of Biological Diversity from Coral Reefs to the Deep Sea: Uncovering Buried Treasures and the Value of the Benthos examines marine benthic habitats around the world that are linked by their physical location at the bottom of the oceans. The book approaches deep sea marine biodiversity with perspectives on genetics, microbiology and evolution, weaving a narrative of vital expert linkages with the goal of protecting something that most people cannot view or experience. Heterogeneity becomes operative across one of the largest continuous habitats of the planet. The book provides a full assessment of biological diversity within various benthic habitats, from coral reefs to plankton and fish species, and offers global case studies.

It is the ideal resource for marine conservationists and biologists aiming to expand their knowledge and efforts to the rarely seen, yet equally important, realms of the ocean and respective benthic species. As deep-sea ecosystems and their species face unprecedented threats of disruption and extinction due to factors including disease, disinformation, pollution and climate change, this book provides current, sweeping knowledge of this undersea world along with remedies for its conservation.

• Compares and contrasts between shallow and marine habitats to reveal revolutionary connections and continuity
• Analyzes modern threats and gaps in biological knowledge regarding benthic communities
• Examines benthic biodiversity through vertical vs. horizontal gradients
• Poses possible solutions for the conservation of benthic habitats and organisms