Shallow water marine molluscan faunas are distributed in a pattern of distinct, geographically definable areas. This makes mollusks ideal for studying the distribution of organisms in the marine environment and the processes and patterns that control their evolution. Biogeography and Biodiversity of Western Atlantic Mollusks is the first book to use quantitative methodologies to define marine molluscan biogeographical patterns. It traces the historical development of these patterns for the subtropical and tropical western Atlantic. The book discusses the multistage process of evolving new taxa caused by eustatic fluctuations, ecological stress, and evolutionary selection. Drawing on his decades of intensive field work, the author defines three western Atlantic molluscan provinces and 15 subprovinces based on his Provincial Combined Index, a modern refinement of Valentine's 50% rule. The faunal provinces-Carolinian, Caribbean, and Brazilian-are discussed in detail. The text defines the physical aspects of the provinces using quantitative data, with water temperature as the primary parameter. It discusses the details of the 15 subprovinces-geographically definable faunal subdivisions-as well as provinciatones, transition zones of provincial overlap. The author's algorithms demonstrate that the bulk of the molluscan biodiversity is concentrated in 40 separate centers of speciation, ranging from Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, south to Argentina. Many of these evolutionary hotspots reside on remote archipelagos and offshore banks as well as within areas of provincial overlap. The text describes some of the more exotic and poorly known areas and presents maps and color photographs of characteristic habitats, index species, and live animals, including over 400 species of rare and seldom seen shells.

The first half of this book is primarily a systematic survey of the snails, beginning with glossaries, keys for identification to genera and a checklist of species. This is followed by a synopsis of species, with brief notes on ecology, distribution and parasites. Relationships are then described between snails and schistosomes and with other parasites. The book goes on to consider the factors affecting snail populations and possible methods for population control.

Biology and Management of Invasive Quagga and Zebra Mussels in the Western United States is a synthesis of the biology and management of invasive mussels from scientists and managers working on invasive quagga and zebra mussels in the western United States. Invasive dreissenid mussels have spread throughout southwestern United States at unprecedented speeds, and present a unique threat to native ecosystems. This book documents the efforts, both successful and unsuccessful, of individuals and agencies after dreissenid mussels invaded the West. Although the book is designed specifically for scientists and managers fighting invasive mussels in western waterbodies, it offers an opportunity for scientists and lake managers worldwide to compare successful strategies relevant to their unique situation. It includes guidance documents and protocols related to early detection, prevention, regulation, monitoring, and control of these invasive pests in the West. It compares quagga and zebra mussels in the western United States with those mussels colonizing the Great Lakes and European waters.

Molluscan Communities of the Florida Keys and Adjacent Areas: Their Ecology and Biodiversity is the first comprehensive overview of the ecology and biodiversity of the phylum Mollusca in the area of Florida extending from the Dry Tortugas and Ten Thousand Islands in the west to Palm Beach in the east. The book provides detailed analyses of molluscan faunas found in 20 different ecosystems, emphasizing the marine environments of the Florida Keys archipelago and its extensive coral reef tracts. Full-page color illustrations portray living animals, unique Keys environments, underwater ecosystems, and satellite images. More than 1,200 species of macromollusks-in 86 gastropod families and 54 bivalve families-are recorded from the study area, with color plates illustrating over 550 of the region's most ecologically important species. For the first time in any book on the malacology of the Florida Keys area, the 20 marine ecosystems and their associated molluscan assemblages are arranged by the CMECS (Coastal Marine Ecological Classification Standard) system. This system emphasizes the hierarchical relationships determined by substrate type, bathymetry, and water chemistry. Along with complete species lists for every molluscan assemblage, this handy guide introduces ten newly-discovered gastropods, including new species in the families Muricidae, Buccinidae, Nassariidae, Naticidae, Turritellidae, and Olividae. Two new bivalves in the families Pectinidae and Arcidae are also described in a special systematic appendix. This richly illustrated book is written for the professional scientific audience interested in mollusks, marine ecology, evolution, and taxonomy as well as malacologists, naturalists, and shell collectors. It is also an ideal synoptic field guide, showing where individual species of mollusks can be found and within which ecosystems they occur.

Bivalve mollusks are roughly hand-sized animals that can aggregate into large groups of millions of individuals as reefs-pumping and filtering enough water in short periods of time to control the processes on the reef and adjacent tidal waters-and serve as valuable indicators and monitors of ecosystem health. Ecology of Marine Bivalves: An Ecosystems Approach, Second Edition examines the ecology of bivalves from an ecosystem or holistic view, taking into consideration their history, thermodynamics, components, and interactions with other species-namely humans. With the advent of the United Nations Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA) in the year 2000, its emphasis for utilizing the ecosystem approach as a standard guideline, and the growing interest in global climate change, this edition has been expanded to include: A new chapter on shell rings, which emphasizes the importance of interaction between disciplines so that we might learn from the past in order to plan for the future Scientific work done on several continents, including case studies from the Chesapeake Bay, the Wadden Sea, and other case studies from Europe and New Zealand Additional material on non-equilibrium thermodynamics, complexity theory, and other cross-disciplinary interactions This book discusses the roles of marine bivalves as a keystone species and as ecosystem engineers, and explains how bivalves are used as monitors and indicators of ecosystem stress and as a fisheries resource. Utilizing case studies and targeted published research to develop narratives suitable for a complex systems approach, the second edition of Ecology of Marine Bivalves is invaluable to scientists and marine workers interested in an up-to-date treatment of mollusks in our seas.

The Chesapeake Miocene will always be considered a paleontological treasure. Given the richness and accessibility of the Maryland and Virginia Miocene shell beds, it seems remarkable that very few people have ever described new species from these strata over the past 185 years. Until now. Integrating elements from paleontology, geology, environmental science, and ecology, Molluscan Paleontology of the Chesapeake Miocene assembles previous research and the authors? experience into a synoptic field guide.

The most complete compendium of Miocene species created since 1904, this long-awaited resource lists nearly 500 species. It contains illustrations of 260 species, including more than 60 not found in any previous book and 26 newly discovered. It describes Chesapeake molluscan faunas in terms of local geology, paleoceanography, and marine paleobiology. Organized by stratigraphic geology, the book covers fossils of the Eastover, St Mary?s, Choptank, and Calvert Formations. It illustrates 24 collecting sites and fossil exposures, showing details of in situ specimens, along with maps of 4 Miocene paleoseas and detailed stratigraphic columns for Maryland and northern Virginia. The text is accompanied by a CD-ROM with color illustrations of the forty known species of ecphora shells. Armed with these, you should be able to identify the species found in the amazingly rich shell beds of the Chesapeake Bay area.

Introducing the Collins Modern Classics, a series featuring some of the most significant books of recent times, books that shed light on the human experience - classics which will endure for generations to come. What if intelligent life on earth not only evolved on land, but also in the sea? Other Minds is a bold new story of how nature became aware of itself - a story that largely occurs in the ocean, where animals first appeared. Tracking the mind's fitful development over millennia, Other Minds explores the incredible evolutionary journey of the cephalopods. What kind of intelligence do they possess? And how did the octopus, a solitary creature with little social life, become so smart? Heralded as the 'scuba-diving philosopher' when Other Minds first published, Peter Godfrey-Smith explores the underwater world and the concept of sentience to trace the question of inner life back to its roots. By comparing human beings with our most remarkable animal relatives, Other Minds casts crucial new light on the octopus mind - and on our own.

The snails found living on rocky sea shores are among the most rewarding invertebrate animals to study. Species such as dog-whelks, topshells and winkles are easy to find, capture, identify, measure and mark. This book provides a key to common species, background ecology, an overview of rocky shore habitats and the techniques required for anyone to study this fascinating and accessible fauna.

Marine Bivalve Molluscs is a comprehensive and thoroughly updated second edition of Bivalve Molluscs, covering all major aspects of this important class of invertebrates. As well as being an important class biologically and ecologically, many of the bivalves are fished and cultured commercially (e.g. mussels, oysters, scallops and clams) in a multi-billion dollar worldwide industry. Elizabeth Gosling has written a landmark book that will stand for many years as the standard work on the subject. Chapters in Marine Bivalve Molluscs cover morphology, ecology, feeding, reproduction, settlement and recruitment, growth, physiology, fisheries, aquaculture, genetics, diseases and parasites, and public health issues. A full understanding of many of these aspects is vital for all those working in bivalve fisheries and culture. An essential purchase for anyone concerned with this important class of animals, copies of Marine Bivalve Molluscs should be on the shelves of biologists, ecologists, environmental scientists, fisheries scientists and personnel within the aquaculture industry. Copies of the book should be available in all libraries and research establishments where these subjects are studied or taught. Reviews of the First Edition An admirable achievement...a valuable addition to marine sciences libraries everywhere. The back cover of this book says that it is a landmark text that will stand for many years as the standard work on this subject. I can only agree with this sentiment. Aquaculture A welcome addition to the literature and provides the reader with a comprehensive overview of biological and environmental factors that affect and control both natural populations of marine bivalves and culture operations. Aquaculture International The author has done an admirable job in compiling a wealth of information into a readable text. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society Will serve well as a description of much of both the experimental biology and the aquaculture of bivalves. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology Provides excellent reviews of all major aspects an extremely important reference for anyone engaged in bivalve research, fisheries management, and aquaculture. Quarterly Review of Biology The book is very readable, in an easy style. It is well illustrated and there is a wealth of data and statistics presented. Bulletin of The Malacological Society of London

Mussels represent an important food source in many parts of the world, including Europe, South America and the Far East, and they have considerable potential as a protein source for many developing countries. In addition, mussels are widely used in pollution studies, and in fundamental ecological and physiological investigations. This book, first published in 1976, is a critical review of information on this group of animals, and sets out the material with suggestions for the future direction of research. The subjects covered include the ecology, physiology, biochemistry, genetics and the culture of mussels. It is an important volume, not only for researchers working with marine molluscs, and with mussels in particular, but also for those in the wider fields of marine ecology, comparative physiology and aquaculture.

Martin Lister, royal physician and fellow of the Royal Society, was an extraordinarily prolific natural historian with an expertise in shells and molluscs. Disappointed with the work of established artists, Lister decided to teach his daughters, Susanna and Anna, how to illustrate the specimens he studied. The sisters became so skilled at this that Lister entrusted them with his great work, 'Historiae Conchyliorum', assembled between 1685 and 1692. This first comprehensive study of conchology consisted of over 1,000 copperplates of shells and molluscs collected from around the world. 'Martin Lister and his Remarkable Daughters' reconstructs the creation of this masterwork, from the identification of the original shells to the drawings themselves, and from the engraved copperplates to the draft prints and final books. Susanna and Anna portrayed the shells not only as curious and beautiful objects, but also as specimens of natural history rendered with sensitivity and keen scientific empiricism. Beautiful in their own right, these illustrations and engravings reveal the early techniques behind scientific illustration together with the often unnoticed role of women in the scientific revolution.

The Utah Mollusk Identification Guide offers up-to-date information for identifying aquatic and terrestrial snails, slugs, clams, and mussels within the state of Utah, providing comparative tables, taxonomic keys, and more than 230 images, including many type specimen images published for the first time. Amateur naturalists and biologists alike will benefit from detailed information regarding size, type, specimen location, junior synonyms (including taxonomy notes), original descriptions for each of the 139 species, and comments to help differentiate similar species. In contrast to older guides, this book includes data on the external and internal anatomy of mollusks. Taxonomic names are updated to incorporate the latest information available. Family descriptions and miscellaneous data on ecology, life history, and genetics are also presented. Distribution data are based on historical articles, museum records, personal observations, and collections. Although the focus is on Utah mollusks, many species are widely distributed and the data, images, references, and taxonomy details within the guide will be of interest to many outside the state.

This book is perhaps the first attempt to comprehensively project the uniqueness of molluscs, covering almost all aspects of reproduction and development from aplacophorans to vampyromorphic cephalopods. Molluscs are unique for the presence of protective external shell, defensive inking, geographic distribution from the depth of 9,050 m to an altitude of 4,300 m, gamete diversity, the use of nurse eggs and embryos to accelerate the first few mitotic divisions in embryos, the natural occurrence of androgenics in a couple of bivalves, viable induced tetraploids, gigantism induced by elevated ploidy, the complementary role played by mitochondrial genome in sex determination by nuclear genes and the uptake and accumulation of steroid hormone from surrounding waters. In molluscs, sexuality comprises of gonochorism (< 75 %) and hermaphroditism, which itself includes simultaneous (> 24%), protandry (< 1 %), Marian and serial. In them, the presence of shell affords iteroparity and relatively longer life span in prosobranchs and bivalves but its absence semelparity and short life span in opisthobranchs and cephalopods. Within semelparity, gonochorism facilitates faster growth and larger body size but hermaphroditism small body size. In them, sex is irrevocably determined at fertilization by a few unknown genes and is not amenable to any environmental influence. However, the sex determining mechanism is more a family trait in bivalves. Primary sex differentiation is also fixed and not amenable to environmental factor but secondary differentiation is labile, protracted and amenable to environmental factors. Both sex differentiation and reproductive cycle are accomplished and controlled solely by neurohormones. In these processes, the role of steroid hormones may be alien to molluscs.

One of the most important sites for the early history of dyeing ever found in Minoan Crete was discovered in 2007. A Middle Bronze Age (Middle Minoan IIB) workshop for making natural dyes and using them to color fabrics included several basins carved into the soft limestone bedrock. Excavations uncovered pottery and stone vessels, stone tools, animal bones, and botanical remains among other types of artifacts. Pefka is of great importance for the history of Bronze Age technology as well as for the light it sheds on what was clearly a major Minoan industry. The evidence provides information both for the manufacture of dyes and for the broader issue of the economic foundation for Minoan trade in textiles during the period of the Old Palaces.

This comprehensive volume focuses exclusively on sea snails (or gastropods), which are popular food items and occupy an important role in the commercial shell craft industry. Familiar examples include conchs (highly sought after due to their mild flavor) and escargot, abalone, and periwinkle snails. This book covers the profile (habitat, distribution, morphology, food and feeding, reproduction, conservation status, etc.) of about 180 species of commercial edible marine gastropod molluscs as well as their nutritional values, commercial importance, and pharmaceutical value. Also included is information on their prevalent diseases and parasites. The informative descriptions are presented in an easy-to-read style with neat illustrations.

A comprehensive volume providing broad and detailed coverage of marine mussels Marine Mussels: Ecology, Physiology, Genetics and Culture provides readers with in-depth, fully up-to-date information on all major aspects of marine mussels. Written by an internationally renowned expert in the field, this authoritative volume addresses morphology, ecology, -feeding, phylogeny and evolution, reproduction and larval development, settlement and recruitment, genetics, disease, management of culture systems and more. The book encompasses many different species of marine mussels: genus Mytilus, other important commercial marine genera such as Perna, Aulacomya and Choromytilus, and non-commercial genera including Modiolus, Geukensia, Brachidontes and hydrothermal vent Bathymodiolus. Comprising twelve extensively cross-referenced chapters, the book discusses a diversity of integrated topics that range from fundamental physiology of marine mussels to new techniques being applied in their biology and ecology. Author Elizabeth Gosling reviews contemporary developments and issues in the field such as the use of DNA genetic markers in detecting and diagnosing different strains of pathogenic bacteria, the use of mussels as monitors of marine contaminants, sophisticated modelling techniques that simulate disease and forecast outbreaks, and the impacts of global warming, ocean acidification and hypoxia on marine mussels. Presenting an inclusive, highly detailed treatment of mussel biology, physiology, genetics, and culture, this invaluable resource: Contains thorough descriptions of external and internal anatomy, global and local distribution patterns, the impacts of mussels on marine ecosystems, and the processes of circulation, respiration, excretion and osmoregulation Reflects significant advances in mussel science and new areas of research in marine mussels Describes the fundamentals of mussel aquaculture, the types and levels of contaminants in the marine environment and new approaches for sustainable aquaculture development Discusses the application of genetic methods, population genetics, global breeding programmes and the emerging area of bivalve genomics Addresses the role of mussels in disease transmission to humans, including production and processing controls, regulation of monitoring and quality control Marine Mussels: Ecology, Physiology, Genetics and Culture is essential reading for biological scientists, researchers, instructors and advanced students in the fields of biology, ecology, aquaculture, environmental science, toxicology, genetics, pathology, taxonomy and public health.

Cephalopods (octopus, squid, cuttlefish) are among the most intelligent invertebrates, with highly developed nervous systems which provide excellent model systems for investigating basic questions in neuroscience. Within the last five years, many of the powerful techniques of molecular biology and electrophysiology have been applied to cephalopods, with exciting results. In 32 chapters, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the functioning of the cephalopod nervous system, from the cellular level to their complex sensory systems, locomotion, learning, and social behavior. It will be of interest to both vertebrate and invertebrate neurobiologists, and by anyone interested in the basic principles that control neural function.

This comprehensive volume contains some sixty papers and reviews presented at the First International Symposium on Abalone Biology, Fisheries and Culture held in La Paz, Mexico. Introductory reviews in the book focus on the evolutionary origin, radiation and modern relationships of the genus Haliotis. Further papers review aspects of the reproductive process, larval energetics, mechanisms of larval settlement, and the ecology of settlement. Feeding deterrents and attractants, and the relation between food and growth are reviewed in a later section of authoritative papers. The natural mortality of abalone and its causes, predators and diseases are thoroughly reviewed. Several papers summarise information on the withering syndrome afflicting black abalone in California. A series of excellent papers and reviews then consider the problems of managing abalone fisheries. The models used are reviewed and examples given of the application of models to specific fisheries. Further papers provide new information on stock enhancement and the book concludes with case studies of the eight major abalone fisheries of the world with a review of the management of each. The book is divided into eight sections as follows: Part I -- Evolution and distributuion. Part II -- Physiology, genetics, reproduction. Part III -- Larval ecology and settlement. Part IV -- Feeding, growth. Part V -- Marketing, disease and predators. Part VI -- Fishery biology, modelling. Part VII -- Case studies of fisheries. Part VIII -- Culture.

Shells have captivated humans from the dawn of time: the earliest known artwork was made on a shell. As well as containers for food, shells have been used as tools, jewellery and decorations for dwellings, and to bring good luck or to ward off spirits. Many indigenous peoples have used shells as currency, and in a few places they still do. This beautifully illustrated book looks at the scientific and cultural history of shells, showing how their diverse colourful forms take shape. It examines pearls, the only gems of animal origin, as well as how shells have inspired artists throughout history. The book looks at shells used in architecture and ritual, but also how shells are indicators of changing environmental conditions.

"Conus" is the largest genus of animals in the sea, occurring throughout the world's tropical and subtropical oceans and contributing significantly to marine biodiversity. The shells of these marine mollusks are prized for their amazing variety and extraordinary beauty. The neurotoxic venoms they produce--injected by a hollow, harpoon-like tooth into prey animals that are then paralyzed and swallowed whole--have a range of pharmaceutical applications, from painkillers to antidepressants. This beautifully illustrated book identifies 53 valid species of the southeastern United States and the Caribbean, a region that supports a diverse but taxonomically challenging group of "Conus." Introductory chapters cover the evolution and phylogeny of the genus, and notes on methodology are provided. Detailed species accounts describe key identification features, taxonomy, distribution, ecology, toxicology, life history, and evolutionary relationships. The book includes more than 2,100 photos of shells on 109 splendid color plates; more than 100 additional photos, many depicting live animals in color; and 35 color distribution maps.Identifies 53 valid species--the first reassessment of western Atlantic "Conus" in more than seventy yearsFeatures more than 2,100 photos of shells on 109 color platesBlends the traditional shell-character approach to identification with cutting-edge shell and radular tooth morphometrics and molecular genetic analysesIncludes color images of live animals as well as color distribution maps

Cephalopods are generally regarded as the most intelligent group among the invertebrates. Despite their popularity, relatively little is known about the range and function of their cognitive abilities. This book fills that gap, accentuating the varied and fascinating aspects of cognition across the group. Starting with the brain, learning and memory, Part I looks at early learning, memory acquisition and cognitive development in modern cephalopods. An analysis of the chambered nautilus, a living fossil, is included, providing insight into the evolution of behavioural complexity. Part II surveys environmental responses, especially within the active and learning-dependent coleoids. The ever-intriguing camouflage abilities of octopus and cuttlefish are highlighted, alongside bioluminescence, navigation and other aspects of visual and cognitive competence. Covering the range of cognitive function, this text underscores the importance of the cephalopods within the field of comparative cognition generally. It will be highly valuable for researchers, graduates and senior undergraduate students.

Cephalopods are generally regarded as the most intelligent group among the invertebrates. Despite their popularity, relatively little is known about the range and function of their cognitive abilities. This book fills that gap, accentuating the varied and fascinating aspects of cognition across the group. Starting with the brain, learning and memory, Part I looks at early learning, memory acquisition and cognitive development in modern cephalopods. An analysis of the chambered nautilus, a living fossil, is included, providing insight into the evolution of behavioural complexity. Part II surveys environmental responses, especially within the active and learning-dependent coleoids. The ever-intriguing camouflage abilities of octopus and cuttlefish are highlighted, alongside bioluminescence, navigation and other aspects of visual and cognitive competence. Covering the range of cognitive function, this text underscores the importance of the cephalopods within the field of comparative cognition generally. It will be highly valuable for researchers, graduates and senior undergraduate students.

Originally published during the early part of the twentieth century, the Cambridge Manuals of Science and Literature were designed to provide concise introductions to a broad range of topics. They were written by experts for the general reader and combined a comprehensive approach to knowledge with an emphasis on accessibility. Pearls by W. J. Dakin was first published in 1913. The book presents a biologically-focused summary of the key facts regarding pearls, pearl fishing and pearl formation.

This book provides a comprehensive review of the ecology of freshwater bivalves and gastropods worldwide. It deals with the ecology of these species in its broadest sense, including diet, habitat and reproductive biology, emphasising in particular the tremendous diversity of these freshwater invertebrates. Following on from these introductory themes, the author develops a life history model that unifies them, and serves as a basis for reviews of their population and community ecology, including treatments of competition, predation, parasitism and biogeography. Extensively referenced and providing a synthesis of work from the nineteenth century onwards, this book includes original analyses that seek to unify previous work into a coherent whole. It will appeal primarily to professional ecologists and evolutionary biologists, as well as to parasitologists.

Here is a comprehensive review of the ecology of freshwater bivalves and gastropods worldwide. Robert Dillon discusses the ecology of these species in its broadest sense, including diet, habitat, and reproductive biology to emphasize the tremendous diversity of these freshwater invertebrates. He develops a new life history model that unifies them and reviews their population and community ecology, treating competition, predation, parasitism, and biogeography. Extensively referenced and synthesizing work from the nineteenth century through to the present day, this book includes original analyses that unify previous work into a coherent whole.