SEA SPECIES In the Southern Arizona desert a group of idealistic scientists, refugees from the Biosphere 2 project, have constructed an isolated community called Kihhim (Tohono O'Odham for the Village). Away from the prying eyes of the press, the public and government regulation, they built a society along the principles of Biosphere 2. At the foot of Baboquivari Peak, the Tohono O'Odham legendary birthplace of the People, they are a space colony, yet on the Earth. To maintain an independent and almost closed ecosystem, genetically manipulated plants grown in their greenhouses have enhanced productivity. When the body of Marty Hinson, a prominent environmentalist, is found on their property, they come under the very scrutiny they sought to avoid. Accusations are lodged, and they are investigated by the United States as isolationists with potentially harmful technology. Religious zealots and terrorist Ralph Whitney attack them for their biological technology and genetic abilities. Kihhim flees the United States, leaving behind their leaders John Vance and Katherine Levey, imprisoned as subversives. They construct a giant catamaran of supertankers establishing Kahchk Kihhim (Tohono O'Odham for Sea Village), a floating nation. Security Supervisor, Leticia Gardner extorts recognition and protection from the United States by threatening the existence of humanity. This marine civilization uses genetic engineering to adapt themselves to life at sea. The shield of protection established by the United States is breached, and prominent figures of both Kahchk Kihhim and the United States are killed. The ensuing investigation reveals backing for the attack by a major world power, embroiling Kahchk Kihhim in global politics. The extent of their genetic engineering is revealed, and the major powers in the world realize the potential resource and the threat to humankind these people represent. Kahchk Kihhim understands that once their extortion threat is nullified, they will be subjugated or destroyed. Under the leadership of Katherine Levey, they race ahead on a program to grow a new underwater habitat utilizing genetic engineering. The citizens of Ocealla, their new home, consist of humans, modified humans, modified dolphins, and a completely new genetic construct. Will technology decide our evolutionary fate? With The Sea Species Saga, Bob Clayton explores how technology plays a role in mankind's adaptation as a species. With intriguing insights into how different technologies can advance the next evolutionary phase, Clayton explores how humans could go from being dependent on our environment, to becoming integrated with it. But are we ready for such responsibility? With an emphasis on real-world politics, and scientific achievements in our lifetime, Bob Clayton looks ahead at how genetics, telecommunications, and computers could be the tools for how we re-design our world. Sea Species weaves an intricate character driven look at how transformative technology can become on a society. Starting in the Arizona desert only to move out into the Pacific Ocean, Clayton examines the intricacies of life, as people develop into masters of their realm. But can such a transformation be held with a steady hand? With crisp prose and complex character arcs, Clayton knits the current topics confronting the socio-economic world, with the possibilities of next-level technology. Will our reach exceed our grasp? The political, social, and intellectual ramifications of new and dramatic developments in science, takes us on a quest with the characters of Kihhim. As they stretch out from the desert onto the sea, becoming a force signaling the next steps for mankind, how will the saga unfold as humans are changed by the very technology they master? Lawrence Robinson, Author "Sea Species by R. L. Clayton is a fast-paced technology driven, reality based thriller that will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next! This interesting look at one possible pathway for potential human evolution; gives readers a glimpse into a radical adaption of not only mankind but other flora and fauna to create a synergistic relationship with the ever-changing environment. Using the aid of recent technical advances that are the building blocks of life, scientist could create entirely new species." Katharine Nelson, Author and Arizona Community Connections Magazine, Publisher " Sea Species has an absorbing story line which takes today's scientifically possible across the line to the evolutionary unthinkable. A compelling read, I hated to put it down! It's an incomparable blend of Sci-fi and contemporary mystery/suspense. Spell binding!" COL S.C. Volgyi, USA (Retired)