This landmark scientific reference for scientists, researchers, and students of marine biology offers the first-ever, complete biodiversity inventory of the Gulf of Mexico, with full biotic and biogeographic information. It is packed with lists ofthe marine species in the gulf: from microbes and diatoms to seaweed,sponges, snails, worms, crabs, fish, birds, andvirtually all other life forms. Listings include information on each species' habitat, biology, and geographic range, along with full references, and are preceded by a narrative introduction to the group. Volume 2 and Volume 3 are also available.