What is marine biology and why is it important? The Eleventh Edition of Introduction to the Biology of Marine Life answers these questions and inspires students to appreciate marine life and ocean ecosystems. Assuming no prior knowledge of marine biology, this entertaining text covers the essentials to a foundational understanding of marine organisms and their environments. The conversational writing style, latest research, and engaging features are designed to intrigue students, while the new Case Studies encourage them to apply their knowledge to current and real-life situations. Introduction to the Biology of Marine Life is the clear choice for students diving into this exciting science.

John F. Morrissey earned his B.A. and M.A. degrees in Biology from Hofstra University. After teaching marine biology and coral reef ecology in Jamaica for 1 year, he then earned his Ph.D. in Marine Biology and Fisheries from the University of Miami's Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science. His dissertation research concerned the movement patterns, diel activity, and habitat selection of lemon sharks in Bimini, Bahamas. Since then, Dr. Morrissey has studied the biology of sharks, skates, and rays all over the world, including Jamaica, Japan, the Azores, and the Canaries. He has been on the board of directors of the American Elasmobranch Society since 1996.For 16 years he taught marine biology, a field course in tropical marine biology, and comparative anatomy at Hofstra University, where he won the Distinguished Teacher of the Year Award in 2006. In 2007, Dr. Morrissey moved to Sweet Briar College in central Virginia, along with his egg-laying colony of 100+ chain catsharks, to teach marine biology, comparative vertebrate anatomy, and animal physiology. He won their Excellence in Teaching Award in 2010. He lives on a dirt road in the woods with his wife (who is also his research partner) and their four spoiled cats.