(Ebook) Graptolite Paleobiology by Jörg Maletz; [and co-authors for some chapters] ISBN 9781118515624, 9781118515785, 9781118561539, 9781119020769, 9781118515617, 1118515625, 1118515781, 1118561538, 111902076X

(Ebook) Graptolite Paleobiology by Jörg Maletz; [and co-authors for some chapters] ISBN 9781118515624, 9781118515785, 9781118561539, 9781119020769, 9781118515617, 1118515625, 1118515781, 1118561538, 111902076X

Main subject categories: • Graptolites • Graptolites ‒ Fossil • Paleobiology • Graptolites ‒ Paleobiology • Graptolite biology • Graptolite anatomyThe graptolites constitute one of the geologically most useful taxonomic groups of fossils for dating rock successions, understanding paleobiogeography and reconstructing plate tectonic configurations in the Lower Palaeozoic. Graptolites were largely planktic, marine organisms, and as one of the first groups that explored the expanses of the world’s oceans are vital for understanding Palaeozoic ecology. They are the best and often the only fossil group for dating Lower Palaeozoic rock successions precisely. Thousands of taxa have been described from all over the planet and are used for a wide variety of geological and palaeontological (biological) research topics. The recent recognition of the modern pterobranch Rhabdopleura as a living benthic graptolite enables a much better understanding and interpretation of the fossil Graptolithina.Provides an up-to-date insight into research on graptolites. Such research has advanced considerably with the use of new methods of investigation and documentation. SEM investigation and research on ultrastructure of the tubaria has made it possible to compare extant and extinct taxa in much more detail. Cladistic interpretation of graptolite taxonomy and evolution has advanced the understanding of this group of organisms considerably in the last two decades, and has highlighted their importance in our understanding of evolutionary processes. This book will show graptolites, including their modern, living relatives, in a quite new and fascinating light, and will demonstrate the impact that the group has had on the evolution of the modern marine ecosystem.Aimed not only earth scientists, biologists, ecologists and oceanographers. It is a readable and comprehensible volume for students at the MSc level, while remaining accessible to undergraduates and non-specialists seeking up-to-date …