Description

Peter Manchester’s Guide to Tasmanian Fossils

Designed for field collectors, educators, and natural history enthusiasts alike, Peter Manchester’s Guide to Tasmanian Fossils bridges the gap between field identification manual and deep-time geological story. Author Peter S. Manchester draws on extensive regional research to present an accessible, highly visual breakdown of specimens across 16 distinct animal and plant phyla – from ancient marine invertebrates embedded in Paleozoic limestone to Triassic flora and extinct vertebrate remains.

Far more than a simple visual index, this guide connects specific fossil discoveries directly to the tectonic evolution of Tasmania and the breaking up of Gondwana. Readers are guided through the history of local paleontology, detailing how pioneering naturalists like Charles Darwin, Joseph Milligan, and Maxwell Banks decoded the state’s rock strata. Complete with site distribution guides, evolutionary cladograms, and full-color specimen photography, it is an indispensable companion for both home study and field exploration.

What Makes This Guide Stand Out:

• Comprehensive Visual Library: Detailed photographic reference covering 16 animal and plant phyla found throughout Tasmania.
• Geological Context: Maps fossil species directly to local rock formations, helping readers understand the exact age and environment of each find.
• Historical Deep Dive: Highlights key Australian and international figures who built Tasmania’s geological record.
• Practical Reference Tools: Includes regional site maps, stratigraphic timelines, and cladograms built for easy lookup.

Product Details:

• Author: Peter S. Manchester
• ISBN-13: 9780646837000
• Format: Paperback / Fully Illustrated Field Guide
• Subjects: Paleontology, Australian Geology, Natural History, Field Guides