Raja Ampat, which literally means ‘Four Kings’ in Bahasa Indonesia, is a group of islands located at the heart of the Coral Triangle. The archipelago boasts 69% of the world’s stony coral species, 27% of the planet’s coral reef fishes, and 10% of the Earth's known mantis shrimp species. Furthermore, the islands are home to lush rainforests that harbor a wide range of freshwater and terrestrial mollusks; arthropods; and vertebrates, including 40% of New Guinea’s bird species (8 of which belong to the stunning ‘Bird of Paradise’ family) and a cornucopia of amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. In Biodiversity in Paradise the reader can experience the physical beauty and astounding wildlife of this most delightful corner of the planet through detailed descriptions of its climate, geography, complex geology, marine and terrestrial ecosystems, flora, fauna, as well as its fascinating human history and rich culture. The book is supplemented by:

204 color images

7 up-to-date color maps

27 tables

20 text boxes 

Biodiversity in Paradise is a must read for anyone who has dived, trekked, bird-watched, snorkeled, or just plain dreamed of visiting Raja Ampat. Undergraduate biology students interested in research will find the book useful and engaging.