Evolution of Fossil Ecosystems

By Paul A. Selden, John R. Nudds, John Nudds

Book Overview

Major advances in our understanding of the history of life on Earth have resulted from the study of exceptionally well-preserved fossil sites (Lagerst tten). Study of such sites from around the world and from different periods in geological time can provide a fairly complete picture of the evolution of ecosystems down the ages.With this aim in mind, the authors have brought together succinct summaries of 14 of the better-known fossil Lagerstatten, beautifully illustrated throughout by over 250 colour photographs and diagrams.Following a general introduction to fossil Lagerst tten, each chapter deals with a single fossil site and follows the same format: its evolutionary position and significance; its background sedimentology, stratigraphy and palaoenvironment; a description of the biota and palaeoecology, and a comparison with other similar Lagerst tten. There are appendices of further reading, relevant museums and suggestions for visiting the sites.This book will be of value to a wide range of students and professionals in palaeontology and related sciences, and to amateur enthusiasts.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1840760400
• ISBN13: 9781840760408
• Release Date: March 2004
• Publisher: Manson Publishing Ltd
• Length: 160 Pages
• Weight: 1.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 10.7" x 0.6" x 8.0"