The hadal zone represents one of the last great frontiers in marine science, accounting for 45% of the total ocean depth range. Despite very little research effort since the 1950s, the last ten years has seen a renaissance in hadal exploration, almost certainly as a result of technological advances that have made this otherwise largely inaccessible frontier, a viable subject for research. Providing an overview of the geology involved in trench formation, the hydrography and food supply, this book details all that is currently known about organisms at hadal depths and linkages to the better known abyssal and bathyal depths. New insights on how, where and what really survives and thrives in the deepest biozone are provided, allowing this region to be considered when dealing with sustainability and conservation issues in the marine environment.

'The most comprehensive book yet written on the mysteries of the ocean's deepest places, written by one of its best explorers.'

James Cameron - film director, film producer and deep-sea explorer

'Marine scientist Alan Jamieson knows this mysterious region better than most … so densely packed with facts on this extraordinary environment that it rewards casual dipping in and out … Jamieson has uncovered delights - and shown us just how much we have yet to discover about the hadal zone. Here's hoping for enough new findings to justify a second edition soon.'

Daniel Cressey Source: Nature

'Alan Jamieson has effortlessly brought together a plethora of information on this enigmatic ecosystem. We are introduced to the basic geological development of the deep water trenches of the hadal zone, and the practicalities and challenges of scientific sampling at depth. Referencing is up to date, very clear and comprehensive, and there is a scholarly listing (appendix) of all known species from the hadal depths and the trench in which they have been found.'

Ian Carter Source: The Biologist