Ammonoid Paleobiology: From Anatomy to Ecology, and from Macroevolution to Paleogeography (2-Volume Set)

This two-volume work is a testament to the abiding interest and human fascination with ammonites. We offer a new model to explain the morphogenesis of septa and the shell, we explore their habitats by the content of stable isotopes in their shells, we discuss the origin and later evolution of this important clade, and we deliver hypotheses on its demise. The Ammonoidea produced a great number of species that can be used in biostratigraphy and possibly, this is the macrofossil group, which has been used the most for that purpose. Nevertheless, many aspects of their anatomy, mode of life, development or paleobiogeographic distribution are still poorly known.

Themes treated are biostratigraphy, paleoecology, paleoenvironment, paleobiogeography, evolution, phylogeny, and ontogeny. Advances such as an explosion of new information about ammonites, new technologies such as isotopic analysis, tomography and virtual paleontology in general, as well as continuous discovery of new fossil finds have given us the opportunity to present a comprehensive and timely "state of the art" compilation. Moreover, it also points the way for future studies to further enhance our understanding of this endlessly fascinating group of organisms.

The two volumes are also available individually as Topics in Geobiology Volume 43 and Volume 44.

Ammonoid Paleobiology: From anatomy to ecology
Part I. Conch
Part II. Ontogeny
Part III. Anatomy
Part IV. Habit and habitats

Ammonoid Paleobiology: From macroevolution to paleogeography
Part I. Macroevolution
Part II. Paleobiogeography of ammonoids
Part III. Ammonoids through time