Evolution of Fossil Ecosystems, Second Edition

The first edition of this book was widely praised for its coverage and approach in describing and illustrating 14 well known fossil sites from around the world. The authors have now updated the text and added 6 new chapters with many new colour illustrations. Following a general introduction to fossil Lagerstätten, 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 Lagerstätten; and a list of relevant museums and suggestions for visiting the sites. This study of exceptionally well-preserved fossil sites from different periods in geological time provides a picture of the evolution of ecosystems down the ages. The book is beautifully illustrated throughout by over 450 colour photographs and diagrams, and is extensively referenced.Evolution of Fossil Ecosystems is of value to a wide range of students and professionals in palaeontology and related sciences, and to amateur enthusiasts.