The Brackish-Water Fauna of Northwestern Europe [Paperback]

A guide to the animals and habitats of brackish water in northwestern Europe.Ephemeral brackish-water habitats, such as estuaries, coastal lagoons and inland seas are rich in fauna, but threatened by rising sea levels, drainage and coastal reclamation, storms and sea defenses. This is the first guide to the fauna of these ecologically important areas.Ephemeral brackish-water habitats, such as estuaries, coastal lagoons and inland seas are rich in fauna, but threatened by rising sea levels, drainage and coastal reclamation, storms and sea defenses. This is the first guide to the fauna of these ecologically important areas.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.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. ...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. PalE