Publisher's Synopsis
"A comprehensive identification guide to all shallow marine fishes within California waters. In all, 753 species are described. A few of these have not been recorded or confirmed as occurring in California waters but are included since they are apt to appear in the waters in the future. A dichotomous key to 195 families includes an outline figure of a representative of each family. Keys are presented for all families with four or more species. Diagnostic features are pointed out on most of the figures. Illustrations are presented for all but a few species. If available, geographic range limits, maximum size, depth range, a brief color description, and some meristic counts are given. Body proportions and shapes are used in the keys and a statement concerning the rarity or commonness in California is given for each species. An illustrated glossary is included to facilitate use of the identification keys and species descriptions"--.
