This comprehensive study deals mainly with the various physiological responses to diving. The differences occurring in cases of anoxia and forced submersion are noted and a concept of predicting behavior from known physiological variables is developed. A detailed discussion of the diving behavior in reptiles, birds and mammals concludes this volume. In addition, results derived from experiments with voluntarily diving animals are reported. This approach as well as the comparisons between widely diverse divers are new and were feasible through the application of advanced computer technology. The reader will gain an understanding of diving physiology as well as feeding ecology and the underlying adaptations, some of which are the most remarkable in the animal world.