Fossils At A Glance is written for students taking an introductory level course in paleontology. Short chapters introduce the main topics in the modern study of fossils. The most important fossil groups are discussed, from microfossils through invertebrates to vertebrates and plants, followed by a brief narrative of life on Earth. Diagrams are central to the book and allow the reader to see most of the important data “at a glance”. Each topic covers two pages and provides a self-contained suite of information or a starting point for future study.

 

What’s new in the 3rd edition?

The new edition boasts full colour photographs, diagrams and illustrations for the first time. A new lead author, Tom Challands, brings a new perspective to the book. All sections have been completely revised and updated. A companion website will provide online resources for enhanced teaching and learning, including experiments and activities, including:

 

-MicroCT dataset and introduction to analysing microCT fossil data using open source, freely available software (ImageJ and Drishti).

 

-Simple acid preparation of fossils in carbonate rocks.

 

-Character matrix for phylogenetic analysis and an introduction to phylogenetic analysis using open source and freely available software. For parsimony – TNT, for Bayesian analysis, MrBayes.

 

- Videos of dissection of mollusc, bivalve, fish to illustrate anatomy