Sea-Weeds, Shells and Fossils

The book surveys marine and freshwater algæ, describing their cellular structure, varied forms from microscopic desmids to giant oarweeds, modes of reproduction, classification into green, red, and brown groups, and ecological and economic roles such as food, iodine sources, fertilizer, and industrial uses. It then treats shells and shell-bearing animals, explaining shell morphology, growth, and classification, and offers guidance for collectors. Finally it examines fossil remains of plants and shells, discusses conditions and limits of preservation, and considers the identification and geological distribution of such fossils.