Plant taxonomy employs an extensive and complex terminology. The meaning of most botanical terms, however, is immediately apparent when an illustration is available. This is the purpose of this volume. This book provides over 1700 clear illustrations of terms used in plant identification keys and descriptions. It includes definitions for more than 2,400 taxonomic terms.

Reviews

This comprehensive, illustrated guide to phytography, the descriptive terminology of plants, was designed as a companion to a textbook for students of botany. Noting that the glossaries of most textbooks are inadequate, and that other field guides include scientific terminology definitions, the Harrises created this handbook to easily convey the meaning of botanical terms with a simple illustration and a short descriptive note.

In alphabetical arrangement, part 1 details more than 2,400 commonly used terms in plant descriptions and identifications coordinated with more than 1,700 illustrations. Included are common usage, historical definition, and divergent usages of terms. No pronounciation guide is included. Part 2 includes terminology grouped in related areas, for example, roots (parts, shapes, types); stems (parts, types, forms); leaves (bases, apices, attachments); surfaces; inflorescences (parts, types, forms); flowers (symmetry, pollination systems, number of floral structure); and fruits (parts, type).

While Taxonomic Terminology of the Higher Plants by Henry Ira Featherly (Iowa State Univ. Press, 1954, reprinted 1965) is similar in scope, it does not include any illustrations. The line drawings enhance the potential usefulness of this reasonably priced handbook of taxonomic terms for both professional botantists and students. It is a recommended addition to both public and academic library botany collections.

A useful glossary that clearly explains and illustrates myriad confusing terms likely to turn up in botanical reference sources.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

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