The vast Indo-Pacific region is the very heart of the world's richest marine biological province. The development of its coral reefs is unsurpassed, forming a sanctuary for a myriad of colorful, often bizarre life forms. This handy reference book provides a compact, comprehensive introduction to this vast aquatic world through 350 high-quality photographs by some of the world's finest underwater photographers. The text is prepared by Dr. Gerald Allen, renowned expert on coral reef fishes and author of numerous books on marine life.