Although it's always exciting to see big animals underwater,
it's the smaller stuff that can provide the most absorbing
dives. These creatures are not always easy to identify,
but this new photographic guide makes the task considerably
easier. Not just for dive sites of Malaysia as the title
suggests, you'll find it useful throughout the Indo-Pacific
from the Maldives to Australia.
As well as being an identification guide, the book gives
tips on how to take a good photo of each animal. They've
even included some previously undocumented species, with
a plea to readers for any further information. With the
exception of corals and sponges, most types of animal
are covered from nudibranchs to fish, and a massive
600 species are described. Notes on the animals behaviour
and habitat are given.
There are some surprising entries and omissions from
the book, until you realise that it is not size that
is the deciding factor but the ability of the animal
to be photographed with a macro lens. So a large octopus
and crocodile fish make an appearance, but small active
fish like fire basslets are excluded.
Is it worth buying? Definitely. It's compact, well laid
out with clear photographs - over 800 of them - and
loads of information.
About the Authors
Andrea and Antonella Ferrari have been regular visitors
to Malaysia for many years. Andrea is a movie journalist
and film critic whilst Antonella works at a publishing
company. They have published several photographic books
and diving guides, including Reef Life, Wonders of the Coral Reefs and Sharks.
