Studies of the Development and Larval Forms of Echinoderms (Classic Reprint) - Hardcover

Th; Mortensen

 
9780484860284: Studies of the Development and Larval Forms of Echinoderms (Classic Reprint)

Synopsis

Discover the hidden world of echinoderm larvae and what they reveal about evolution and classification.

This scholarly work surveys the rich variety of larval forms found in sea urchins, starfish, brittle stars, and related groups, linking their shape and skeleton to broader adult families. With clear explanations and abundant plates, it shows how early life stages inform our understanding of taxonomy and natural relationships among echinoderms.

This edition focuses on how pelagic larval life shapes form, function, and species connections. It discusses major larval types, the significance of metamorphosis, and how developmental patterns align with adult classifications. It also highlights the value of larval studies for experimental embryology, heredity, and biogeography, helping readers grasp why these tiny stages matter for marine biology.
  • Explanations of key larval types across echinoderm groups and what they indicate about relationships among families.
  • Detailed descriptions of skeletal structures, hydrocoels, ciliated bands, and other developmental features.
  • Discussion of how larval data informs classification and evolutionary hypotheses in echinoderms.
  • Rich plates and illustrations that complement the text and illustrate complex morphologies.
Ideal for students, researchers, and curious readers who want a clear, accessible look at how the development of larval forms relates to the adult world of echinoderms.

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