Australia is the shark and ray "capital" of the world, with far more different species than any other country. Of the 950 known species of sharks and rays throughout the world, Australia is host to approximately 300, many of which are found only in the waters of Australia. This book has been written with the amateur naturalist in mind. Information is organized simply, with individual species or group entries describing key characteristics, such as where they are found, food requirements and behavioural habits. Each entry is accompanied by a colour photograph and, where appropriate, distribution maps. A key feature is the "gee whiz" spreads which answer many of the most commonly asked questions about why sharks and rays do what they do, revealing interesting facts and providing practical information for the amateur enthusiast. In addition, fact panels interspersed throughout the text highlight surprising snippets of information.