Nudibranchs of Southern Africa: A Guide to Opisthobranch Molluscs of Southern Africa

摘要: Southern Africa, whose east coast originates in tropical waters and west is cooled by upwelling the north-flowing Benguela current, may be expected to have a rich complex benthic marine fauna. This expectation though does not adequately prepare one for diversity of species, color, form encountered Terrence Gosliner's guide opisthobranch molluscs southern Africa. book-the first comprehensive seaslugs region-is visual feast. Two hundred sixty eight species are represented, each with stunning color photograph from life as well thoroughly researched summaries taxonomy, natural history, distribution. Using simple morphology distinguish this intended anyone interested identifying members visually flamboyant group animals. However, authoritative text, broad distribution many families genera will especially interest students opisthobranchia, professional malacologists, biologists. Of three parts, well-written introduction provides concise account evolution, biology, systematics molluscs, advice on finding observing these often cryptic animals, particularly interesting discussion biogeography The last, however, would profited juxtaposition map major collecting localities other regions mentioned text. bar graphs (labelled Table 2) illustrating geographic transition primarily Indo-Pacific circumtropical fauna dominated Atlantic endemic useful, but should included number faunal component along percentages-how much wonderful circumtropical, endemic, etc., how been found particular locality? second part book includes list all opisthobranchs reported Africa (not just those pictured book) some aids identification: glossary morphological terms, line drawings representative animals significant features (additional labelling make more useful), key described guide. relies external living but, modestly implied original identifications were based Dr. extensive anatomical studies, familiarity world literature, research throughout world. plates descriptions comprise third part. exquisitely printed (no doubt explaining book's cost), layout clear, text again lucid, informative, free obvious errors. For animal author