The Brackish-Water Fauna of Northwestern Europe

by Richard S. K. Barnes

Overview

Brackish water can be found wherever sea water is diluted by freshwater to form water of intermediate salinity. The ephemeral habitats of estuaries, coastal lagoons and inland seas are rich in fauna, but are threatened by rising sea levels, drainage and reclamation of low lying coastal land, storms and sea defenses. This is the first guide to the fauna of these ecologically important areas. The author examines and reviews the ecology of these animals and their habitats and includes keys designed for use with living materials. He also provides clear illustrations for all species likely to be found in brackish water habitats in northwestern Europe.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521455299
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	08/25/1994
Pages:	303
Product dimensions:	7.56(w) x 9.92(h) x 0.91(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. Introduction; 2. The origin of brackish-water habitats; 3. Brackish-water habitats and their investigation; 4. Nature of brackish-water faunas: estuaries; 5. Nature of brackish-water faunas: lagoons; 6. The diets of brackish-water animals; 7. What limits the populations of brackish-water animals?; 8. Reproduction; 9. Identification and notes on the species; Sources of illustrations; References; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"...this book has many merits and presents a valuable and useful addition to the brackish-water literature. It places a real working tool in the hands of the professional biologists, the undergraduate student on field courses, and the keen naturalist exploring these fascinating habitats alike. Particularly the paperback edition represents good value for money and anyone purchasing it will soon find his copy well-thumbed." Thomas Schlacher, Estuaries

"...the author achieved to cover most species in one book and brackish-water ecologists need books like this for fast and efficient identification of animals. Therefore it belongs in the library of any field worker in brackish-water areas of Europe." Andreas Röpke, Bulletin of Marine Science

"The book will be valuable to field workers, naturalists, and students interested in these water habitats and their fauna....all can find value here." T.L. Hufford, Choice

From the Publisher