THE COVERS
Articles & Editorials
August 2009 - Volume 19 Number 8
    
Illustrations by Keith Ibsen
Ever pondered a fish's mouth as a specialized tool? Chances are you have if you've ever watched a parrotfish munch coral or a grouper inhale its prey. This month's covers highlight author Greg Laslo's feature article, "Mouthing Off: Examining the Form and Function of Fish Mouths."
FEATURES
20
Mouthing Off:
Examining the Form and
Function of Fish Mouths
As divers we all appreciate the diversity of marine life found on the reef. To understand how all that diversity occurred, it helps to know something about the anatomy of your favorite fish, how it uses what it's got, and why all those different shapes work. Eventually, scientists think that may even help us learn a bit more about the history of coral reefs themselves, which means, when it comes to fish mouths, there's a lot to take in.
By Greg Laslo
30
Identify and Avoid, or Deal With It:
Scuba Diving and the Worst-Case Scenario
Despite our best-laid dive plans, things can go awry, and for a variety of reasons. This article takes a look at some of the most challenging situations a diver can encounter. For each one, the author defines the scenario, identifies the risk factors, examines the likely causes and suggests strategies for avoidance.
By Robert N. Rossier
42
Oxtox and Diving:
When Oxygen Can Be a Bad Thing
At the right depth any gas mixture containing any percentage of oxygen can become toxic. The author explains oxygen toxicity as it relates to diving and reminds us that a basic understanding of physics and adherence to safe diving practices are all we need to avoid the risk of oxtox.
By Alex Brylske
COMMENTARY
8
Editorial: Get Down to Safety
By Alex Brylske
10
Buddy Lines: A Fan Far From Home
 
12
Dive Observer: Nereus Reaches Deepest Part of the Ocean
By Gene Gentrup
80
No Dumb Questions: Health Concerns
Over Lead Weights, Safe Weight Distribution, and ‘Bounce' Diving
Questions from our readers
By Alex Brylske
DIVE EXPLORATION
64
Global Dive Exploration Map
A geographical guide to great dive destinations across the globe
 
66
Dive Geo: St. Vincent and the Grenadines
‘Land of the Blessed'
Many islands, lots of dive opps
By Marty Snyderman
73
Ohio's Circleville Twin Quarries:
2 for the Price of 1
One location, double the fun
By Linda Lee Walden
77
Passport:
Dive travel deals from all over
Compiled by
Gene Gentrup
78
Diving USA
Dive travel opportunities across America
 
EVERY MONTH
53
Scuba Skills: Live Boating:
Techniques for Diving From an Unanchored Boat
It means paying attention
By Lynn Laymon
57
Instructor Tips: Floating Lessons:
Teaching Comfort on the Surface
Help students feel at ease while afloat
By Robert N. Rossier
61
Always Learning:
An Ordinary Saturday: Extraordinary Lessons
Scuba resources are everywhere
By Marty Snyderman
84
Dive Shop
Compiled by
Gene Gentrup
86
What's That?: The ‘Other' Eating Machines: Filter Feeders Great and Small
They come in all shapes and sizes
By Marty Snyderman
By Marty Snyderman
91
Premier Classifieds
 
92
Behind the Lens:
Capturing Mutual Curiosity:
Eye to Eye With a Gray Whale
All eyes on imaging
By Marty Snyderman
93
Dive Training Classifieds
 
97
Dive Training Quiz:
Test your knowledge of the information in this month's issue
 
98
Final Check: What It Looks Like When…
You Resist Temptation Avoid risky situations
By Lynn Laymon