Ralf Kiefner is one of the most renowned underwater documentary filmmakers of modern times. When someone of his calibre publishes a photo book about his favourite animals, expectations are naturally high.
Across 176 pages, one theme consistently emerges: respect for sharks. However, this is not framed within amateurish fear, but on the contrary: in recognition of the specialised sensory biology and unique behaviours of these cartilaginous fish, and their ecological role as apex predators in marine ecosystems.
Following a scientifically grounded introduction on shark conservation, Ralf Kiefner recounts experiences, encounters, and field observations with key predatory species, structured by taxon: from the Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias) and Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) to Reef Sharks and the Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus). Each species is documented objectively. Over more than 25 years of research, he and his wife, biologist Andrea Ramalho, have gathered extensive field data and observational material.
Alongside the narrative reports, the publication is defined by an extensive compilation of high-quality wildlife photography. The biomechanics and morphology of these animals are captured in every image, accompanied by the author's note that all photographs were made possible solely through the natural behaviour and tolerance of the sharks themselves.
A volume compiled by a shark conservationist for those active in marine conservation. Our recommendation of the month.
NB: ElasmOcean reviews this book independently and without remuneration. It is therefore not subject to German legal terms requiring declaration as advertising (#Werbung).
(c) Ralf Kiefner
