Oceanography and Marine Biology preserves the basic elements of the physical, chemical, and geological aspects of the marine sciences, and merges those fundamentals into a broader framework of marine biology and ecology.

• Bringing marine biology and the traditional oceanographic disciplines closer together more effectively introduces fundamentals of the physical sciences by showing students how such concepts form the oceanographic foundation upon which life in the sea depends.
• The various subjects addressed are made relevant to students everyday lives through the use of common examples wherever possible, often in side boxes that provide more in-depth explanation.
• Historical figures are brought to life in order to develop a sense in the reader of how scientific ideas have progressed, what science is, and how it is done.
• The text is complemented by full-color illustrations.
• Chapter-opening Contents provide an overview of topics to be covered, and chapters end with a Summary, Discussion Questions, and Further Reading.