A comprehensive and up-to-date review of the subject of the nature, causes, and consequences of fluid flow in oceanic crust, this edited volume sets in context much recent research for the first time. The book begins with a concise review of the relatively brief history of its subject which began shortly after the dawning of plate-tectonic theory little more than 30 years ago. It then describes the nature and important consequences of fluid flow in the sub-seafloor, ending with a summary of how the oceans are affected by the surprisingly rapid exchange of water between the crust and the water column overhead. The accompanying CD includes a full and easily navigated set of diagrams and captions, references, and photos of research vessels, submersibles, and tools used in marine hydrologic studies. A valuable resource for graduate students and researchers of Earth Sciences and Oceanography.