History of the British Sea-Anemones and Corals : With Coloured Figures of the Species and Principal Varieties

This book offers a comprehensive and meticulously crafted exploration of British sea-anemones and corals, aimed at providing students and enthusiasts with a clear and structured guide to the fascinating world of these marine animals. With an emphasis on distinctive precision and order in description, the author sets out to rectify the vagueness and confusion often found in similar works. Drawing inspiration from historical figures like Montagu while avoiding the pitfalls of excessive minutiae or overly broad characterizations, this work strikes a perfect balance between brevity and clarity.

The author situates this study within the broader context of British zoology, critically engaging with previous seminal works such as Dr. Johnston's "History of British Zoophytes" and M. Milne-Edwards' "Histoire Naturelle des Coralliaires," highlighting their limitations due to geographical constraints or lack of firsthand observation. Through extensive personal research across prolific parts of the British shores and contributions from scientific peers, the author has examined fifty-four species firsthand, enriching this book with valuable insights into seventy-five species, including thirty-four additions to the British fauna.

The innovative approach of distinguishing prominent varieties with trivial names is introduced alongside analytical tables for families, genera, and speciesa novel feature that enhances understanding and facilitates comparison. The thematic depth extends to discussing methodological advancements in studying these creatures outside traditional confines, emphasizing fieldwork over museum-based research.

In essence, this book not only serves as an indispensable resource for anyone interested in the study of British sea-anemones and corals but also marks a significant contribution to zoological literature by bridging historical knowledge with thorough contemporary research. Its insightful examination underscores the importance of direct engagement with nature in advancing our understanding of marine biodiversity.

This book offers a comprehensive and meticulously crafted exploration of British sea-anemones and corals, aimed at providing students and enthusiasts with a clear and structured guide to the fascinating world of these marine animals. With an emphasis on distinctive precision and order in description, the author sets out to rectify the vagueness and confusion often found in similar works. Drawing inspiration from historical figures like Montagu while avoiding the pitfalls of excessive minutiae or overly broad characterizations, this work strikes a perfect balance between brevity and clarity.

The author situates this study within the broader context of British zoology, critically engaging with previous seminal works such as Dr. Johnston''s "History of British Zoophytes" and M. Milne-Edwards'' "Histoire Naturelle des Coralliaires," highlighting their limitations due to geographical constraints or lack of firsthand observation. Through extensive personal research across prolific parts of the British shores and contributions from scientific peers, the author has examined fifty-four species firsthand, enriching this book with valuable insights into seventy-five species, including thirty-four additions to the British fauna.

The innovative approach of distinguishing prominent varieties with trivial names is introduced alongside analytical tables for families, genera, and speciesa novel feature that enhances understanding and facilitates comparison. The thematic depth extends to discussing methodological advancements in studying these creatures outside traditional confines, emphasizing fieldwork over museum-based research.

In essence, this book not only serves as an indispensable resource for anyone interested in the study of British sea-anemones and corals but also marks a significant contribution to zoological literature by bridging historical knowledge with thorough contemporary research. Its insightful examination underscores the importance of direct engagement with nature in advancing our understanding of marine biodiversity.