Fossils on the Seashore Beachcombing and Palaeontology

About this book

Fossils on the Seashore is an expert and accessible guide to exploring the palaeontological richness of Britain's coastal landscapes. While inland sites are increasingly off-limits, the UK's extensive coastline remains a specimen-rich wonderland of fossils and fossiliferous rock, shining a light on questions of palaeoecology, preservation and trace fossils.

A retired geologist and expert palaeontologist, Dr Stephen Donovan balances scholarly knowledge with practical guidance. Designed for easy reference in the field, each chapter is concise and self-contained, equipping readers with the knowledge to identify fossils, understand ancient ecosystems, and appreciate the processes behind fossilisation.

Fossils on the Seashore brings the author's extensive field experience to life, unlocking the geological and palaeontological secrets of the past from Britain's remarkable coastal landscapes. It is an indispensable resource for both amateur enthusiasts and emerging palaeontologists.

Contents

PART I: INTRODUCING ASPECTS OF THE BEACH
1. Introduction: On the Beach
2. Molluscs or Pebbles?
3. Sandy Beaches
4. Pebbles and Cobbles on the Beach
5. Aktuo Paläontologie
6. Health and Safety.

PART II: WHAT TO LOOK FOR
7. Provenance
8. Corals and sponges
9. Bryozoans
10. Crabs
11. Barnacles
12. Gastropods
13. Bivalves
14. Cephalopods, Scaphopods and Chitons
15. Worms and Their Tubes
16. Echinoids

PART III: WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO SEE
17. Margate, Kent
18. Sandown, Isle of Wight
19. Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex
20. Overstrand, Norfolk
21. Easington, Co. Durham
22. Isle of Mull, Scotland

Customer Reviews

Biography

Professor Stephen Donovan has been publishing on such diverse subjects as palaeontology, Caribbean geology, the history of science, ichnology and academic publishing for over 35 years. He loves researching the fossil record and writing about it.