49-6903

TD427

2011-275341 MARC

Ocean acidification, ed. by Jean-Pierre Gattuso and Lina Hansson. Oxford, 2011. 326p bibl index alp ISBN 9780199591084, $135.00; ISBN 9780199591091 pbk, $67.95

This book discusses the historical, geological, biological, physical, chemical, and societal aspects of ocean acidification. It is the first comprehensive review of its kind on this topic. The well-organized volume, with contributions from internationally respected experts, devotes 15 fully referenced chapters introducing the problems presented by the dissolution of increasing amounts of atmospheric C[O.sub.2] into the oceans. The first chapter discusses the relevant physical and chemical processes, and places the problem in context. Subsequent chapters address past, present, and future ocean chemistry; effects of acidification on marine ecosystems; feedbacks and consequences of acidification on other physical and chemical processes; and societal issues and policy decisions. Chapters are illustrated with high-quality figures and informative tables, many of which are compiled from other sources specifically for this book; e.g., table 7.1 is a 15-page comprehensive list of the effects of acidification on major benthic organisms. This work will serve as a primary reference for anyone concerned about ocean acidification, including scientists and professionals. The writing is clear enough to serve as a reference for motivated students and laypeople. It should be required reading in every course on climate change. Summing Up: Essential. **** Upper-division undergraduates through professionals.--N. W. Hinman, University of Montana