molluscs

Prized for their amazing variety and extraordinary beauty, Conus is the largest genus of animals in the sea. The shells of these marine mollusks occur throughout the world’s tropical and subtropical oceans and contribute significantly to marine biodiversity. The neurotoxic venoms they produce have a range of pharmaceutical applications, from painkillers to antidepressants. This beautifully illustrated book identifies 53 valid species of the southeastern United States and the Caribbean, a region that supports a diverse but taxonomically challenging group of Conus. Introductory chapters cover the evolution and phylogeny of the genus, and notes on methodology are provided. Detailed species accounts describe key identification features, taxonomy, distribution, ecology, toxicology, life history, and evolutionary relationships. The book includes more than 2,100 photos of shells on 109 splendid color plates; more than 100 additional photos, many depicting live animals in color; and 35 color distribution maps.

This manual contains the main diagnostic shell characters of 189 species and 83 subspecies the taxonomic level of which is confirmed in a Project Intraspecific variation in living cowries (1998-2012). All the conclusions drawn in this project are based on the results of conchological studies. The diagnostic conchological information is supplemented in the Manual by discussion of the 18 main cowry forms and illustrated by more than 1,100 colour pictures.

In a work that beautifully demonstrates the rewards of closely observing nature, Elisabeth Tova Bailey shares an inspiring and intimate story of her uncommon encounter with a Neohelix albolabris a common woodland snail. While an illness keeps her bedridden, Bailey watches a wild snail that has taken up residence on her nightstand. As a result, she discovers the solace and sense of wonder that this mysterious creature brings and comes to a greater understanding of the interconnections between species and her own human place in the natural world. Intrigued by the snail’s molluscan anatomy, cryptic defences, clear decision making, hydraulic locomotion, and mysterious courtship activities, Bailey becomes an astute and amused observer, providing a candid and engaging look into the curious life of this overlooked and under appreciated small animal.

The visually arresting and often misunderstood octopus has long captured popular imagination. With an alien appearance and an uncanny intellect, this exceptional sea creature has inspired fear in famous lore and legends – from the giant octopus attack in 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea to Ursula the sea witch in The Little Mermaid.  Yet its true nature is more wondrous still. After decades of research, the authors reveal a sensitive, curious, and playful animal with remarkable intelligence, an ability to defend itself with camouflage and jet propulsion, an intricate nervous system, and advanced problem-solving abilities.   In this beautifully photographed book, three leading marine biologists bring readers face to face with these amazingly complex animals that have fascinated scientists for decades.  From the molluscan ancestry of today’s octopus to its ingenious anatomy, amazing mating and predatory behaviours, and other-worldly relatives, the authors take readers through the astounding life cycle, uncovering the details of distinctive octopus personalities.  With personal narratives, underwater research, stunning close-up photography, and thoughtful guidance for keeping octopuses in captivity, Octopus is the first comprehensive natural history of this smart denizen of the sea.