Éléments de Morphologie des Vertébrés Anatomie et Embryologie Comparées, Paléontologie et Classification

Abstract

THIS is an interesting and thoughtful introduction to the morphology of the vertebrata, very clearly written, well illustrated, and with several distinctive features. The author thinks, probably with justice, that the vertebrata are better subjects than the invertebrates for the illustration of morphological principles. Their structure is more thoroughly known and its relations to the conditions of life are more certain; the development of the chief types has been worked out in its main features; and we have, on the whole, more information in regard to the past history. Filiation is clearer among vertebrata than among invertebrates. For learning the lessons of morphology it is better to begin with one phylum than with many, and the most educationally profitable phylum is that with which students are likely to be most familiar—the vertebrata.

l ments de Morphologie des Vert br s. Anatomie et Embryologie Compar es, Pal ontologie et Classification.

By Prof. L. Vialleton. Pp. xiv + 790. (Paris: Octave Doin et Fils, 1911.) Price 18 francs.