Springer Taxonomy of Porifera - N.E. Atlantic and Mediterranean

Sponges are vital components of littoral ecosystems, yet their systematics often lag behind other marine invertebrate groups. This scientific volume, part of the Nato ASI Subseries G (Volume 13), addresses the critical need for clearer taxonomy and identification methods. Because evolutionary trends in these primitive Metazoans are not yet fully understood, accurate classification is necessary for successful ecological studies. As scientific interest shifts toward sponge chemistry, the importance of precise identification becomes even more apparent. Many of the hundreds of chemicals identified in recent studies may have been documented under mistaken or imprecise taxonomic classifications. This book provides the necessary groundwork to resolve these confusion points, helping researchers and scientists better understand the biological and chemical properties of sponges found in the N.E. Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea.