Main description:

Palynology is important in basic as well as in manifold applied sciences, as e.g. biology, medicine, forensics, earth history, climatology and food production. This volume is the first fully illustrated handbook of palynological principles and glossary terms, exclusively using LM and EM micrographs of superior quality. A comprehensive General Chapter on pollen morphology, anatomy, pollen development etc. based on the present knowledge in palynology introduces the reader in the world of pollen. The glossary part comprises more than 300 widely used terms illustrated with over 1.000 high quality light and/or electron microscopic pictures to show the character range of a term. Terms are grouped by feature, e.g. ornamentation, where each term is illustrated on a separate page, definition and original citation included and where necessary, provided with a comprehensive explanatory comment. The term's use in LM, SEM or TEM and its assignment to anatomical, morphological and/or functional pollen features is indicated by icons and colour coding, respectively. This handbook is not only a valuable source for students and researchers but also for all persons interested in pollen and its aesthetic beauty.

Back cover:

This handbook is a fully illustrated compendium of glossary terms and basic principles in the field of palynology, making it an indispensable tool for all palynologists.

The general chapter on pollen morphology, anatomy, and pollen development deals with essential aspects of palynology. Where appropriate, ambiguous or poorly recognized aspects are explained in greater detail, based on the present state of knowledge in palynology.

The terminology section comprises more than 300 widely used terms illustrated with over 1000 high-quality light and/or electron microscope images. It provides a detailed survey of the manifold ornamentation and structures of pollen walls, and offers insights into their stunning aesthetic beauty. Terms are grouped by context to allow easier and faster comparison of similar features. In general, each term is explained on a page of its own, including the definition, plant species, and, if needed, a comprehensive explanation. The use of the terms in LM, SEM or TEM and their assignment to anatomical, morphological and/or functional pollen features are indicated by icons and color coding, respectively.

The textual glossary is arranged alphabetically for faster term searches. Key literature sources are mentioned and select cross-references to the general chapter are included for better comprehension.

Contents:

From the contents:

General Chapter

...Scope of the book

...A short history of palynology

...The pollen grain, its development, morphology and anatomy

...Pollen preparation techniques

...Our guide lines concerning palynological terms 

The Terminology, fully illustrated by light and scanning/transmission electron microscope images:

...General Terms,

...Pollen Units

...Shape and Size

...Apertures

...Ornamentation

...Pollen Wall Structure

Glossary

Literature