Areas of brackish water (such as coastal lagoons and estuaries) are rich in fauna, but are also under threat from both natural and human sources. This is the first identification guide to the macrofauna of these ecologically important areas in northwestern Europe. The keys are designed to be used with living material and all species are illustrated.
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.
'Fieldworkers, naturalists and students interested in Europe's coastal fringe will find this an essential reference work.' Bryan Sage, Countryside