The effects of UV radiation in the marine environment

Decreasing concentrations of ozone in the stratosphere radically influence the effects ofUV radiationon the environment.This bookprovides a comprehensive review of UV radiation effects specifically in the marine environment. A multidisciplinary approach is adopted to discuss all aspects from physical, chemical and biological perspectives. The book begins by describing the attenuation of UV radiation in the atmosphere and seawater, outlining the photochemical reactions involved and highlighting the role that such chemistry canplay in influencing thebiogeochemical cycling of various elements. The deleterious consequences of such radiation on organisms are discussed, from viruses and bacteria through phytoplankton and zooplankton to fish andmammals. The strategies adopted by these organisms to mitigate such harmful repercussions and a synthesis of theUV-induced response at a community level are also considered. The book is aimed at researchers and graduate students in photobiology, photochemistry andenvironmental science. Itwill also beuseful as a supplementary text for courses in oceanography, climatology and ecology.