Despite the reputation of the Maldives as being a world-class diving destination, this is the first really comprehensive fish guide specifically aimed at these islands. More than 50 new species for the Maldives are published for the first time and, with over 1100 superb underwater photographs that include almost every fish that divers are likely to see, this book is the perfect guide to check on that mystery' fish after each dive. The book is compact, easy to use and a handy size to carry to dive locations. The introduction explains the basics of fish-science, behaviour and evolution and there are detailed drawings on fish features, shapes and colour patterns. To assist divers, an innovative concept is used to allow easy retrieval and identification of species. Small silhouettes of the families are distributed as thumbprints throughout the book and families are color coded for quick access. Whilst text for each species is brief, it describes points of interest and differences between similar species. This book portrays the fishes from this respected author's practical point of view and divers can expect to learn a great deal from this valuable reference.