In 1942, a monumental volume was published on The Oceans by H. U. Sverdrup, M. W. Johnson, and R. H. Fleming. It was comprehensive and covered the knowledge at that time of the scientific study of the oceans. This seminal book helped to initiate the tremendous burgeoning of marine research that occurred during the following decades. The Encyclopedia of Ocean Sciences aims to embody the great growth of knowledge in a major reference work. The first edition of the Encyclopedia of Ocean Sciences, published in 2001, has proven to be a valuable asset for the marine science community – and more generally.

There have been remarkable new approaches to the study of the oceans that blur the distinctions between the physical, chemical, biological, and geological disciplines. New theories and technologies have expanded our knowledge of ocean processes. For example, plate tectonics has revolutionized our view not only of the geology and geophysics of the seafloor but also of ocean chemistry and biology. Satellite remote sensing provides a global vision as well as detailed understanding of the close coupling of ocean physics and biology at local and regional scales.

Exploration, fishing, warfare, and the impact of tides and storms have driven the past study of the seas, but we now have a great public awareness of and concern with broader social and economic issues affecting the oceans. For this reason, we have invited articles explicitly on marine policy and environmental topics, as well as encouraging authors to address these aspects of their particular subjects. We believe the Encyclopedia should be of use to those involved with policy and management as well as to students and researchers.

Over 400 scientists contributed to the first edition. In this edition there are 54 new articles, 67 revisions of previous articles, and a completely revised and improved index. We are grateful to the members of the Editorial Advisory Board, nearly all of whom have stayed with us during the lengthy process of going electronic  The authors of both editions are distinguished researchers who have generously shared their knowledge of this ever-growing body of science. We are extremely grateful to all these authors, whose ability to write concisely on complex subjects has generated a perspective on our science that we, as editors, believe will enhance the appreciation of the oceans, their uses, and further research.

John H. Steele, Editor, Steve A. Thorpe, Editor and Karl K. Turekian, Editor