Evolution of Fossil Ecosystems

Paul Selden
Reader in Palaeontology, Department of Earth Sciences, Manchester University, UK

John Nudds
Keeper of Geology, The Manchester Museum, University of Manchester, UK

Major advances in our understanding of the history of life on Earth have resulted from the study of exceptionally well-preserved fossil sites (Lagerstätten). 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 Lagerstätten, beautifully illustrated throughout by over 250 colour photographs and diagrams.

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. 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.

Contents

Introduction

1. Ediacara
2. Burgess Shale
3. Soom Shale
4. Hunsrück Slate
5. Rhynie Chert
6. Mazon Creek
7. Grès à Voltzia
8. Holzmaden Shale
9. Morrison Formation
10. Solnhofen Limestone
11. Santana and Crato Formations
12. Grube Messel
13. Baltic Amber
14. Rancho La Brea

Appendix 1 – Further reading

Appendix 2 – Museums and site visits

Index