Fortey, Richard A

In his accessible introduction to the study and meaning of fossils, the world-renowned paleontologist Richard Fortey provides a comprehensive guide to all aspects of fossils and their use in reconstructing the history of life on Earth. Extensively illustrated in full color throughout, this fifth edition of Fossils includes the most recent advances in our understanding of the fossil record and the significance of new fossil finds. Fortey clearly explains what fossils are, how they form, how to identify them, and how they help us to understand Earth's geological past and the emergence of life. Drawing on all the latest research, including recent developments in molecular paleontology, he discusses evolution and extinction, the economic uses of fossil-derived products such as oil and coal, and offers practical advice for making a fossil collection. Fossils will appeal to everyone who shares an interest in the history of life on our planet.

Short poems about twenty-six dinosaurs, arranged A to Z.

Examines species of animals and plants that have retained their traits throughout evolutionary history, remaining essentially unchanged for four billion years.

An introduction to London's Natural History Museum that describes the various collections, artifacts, and exhibits that represent many of the scientific accomplishments of the nineteenth, twentieth, and twenty-first centuries.

Discusses how the life of ages long past may be reconstructed from fossils. Includes hints on collecting, cleaning, and identifying fossils.

The author tracks the history of the earth's geological past and examines the changes over the millenniums including volcanic eruptions, development of ancient continents and seas, and the movement of plates.

A natural history of life on Earth, drawing from the fossil record to trace the period between the Big Bang and the appearance of Homo sapiens, and stressing the interconnectedness of all life forms.

Chronicles millions of years of evolution during the Paleozoic Era, years that were witnessed by the trilobites.