Abstract
Summary
To most people, the mention of marine plants conjures up images of rotting seaweed piled high on the beach, or slithering threateningly around bare ankles during a paddle in the shallows. Certainly marine plants do not inspire the imagination or the romanticism that is usually associated with the sea. Marine Plants of Australia might well alter that perception. It illustrates over 300 species of Australia's underwater plant life, mostly using underwater photographs that reveal the amazing colors and intricate patterns found in this largely unknown realm of life. Imagine plants with blue foliage that turns red in the dark, or iridescent plants, or plants that look like rocks painted in shades of pink. There are marine plants with the consistency of jelly, or with fronds that form an intricate mesh that rivals the best lace. These plants have evolved a startling myriad of shapes, colors and patterns that will impress everyone who views them - underwater, or through the pages of this book. Marine Plants of Australia is fully referenced and has numerous descriptions and line drawings, detailing many of the intricacies of this surprisingly complex group of plants. It will be an invaluable identification guide for scientists and teachers; in fact, for anyone interested in the natural world.