This book provides complete coverage of all aspects of the study of all fossil palynomorphs yet studied. It is a profusely illustrated treatment. The book serves both as a student text and general reference work. Palynomorphs yield information about age, geological and biological environment, climate during deposition, and other significant factors about the enclosing rocks. Extant spores and pollen are treated first, preparing the student for more difficult work with fossil sporomorphs and other kinds of palynomorphs. An appendix describes laboratory methods. The glossary, bibliographies and index are useful tools for study of the literature.

The material in this volume represents fifteen hundred (actually 1,4 97) publications on the Oligocene, Miocene and Pliocene compiled on data sheets for either computer coding or as direct reference materials. Figures v and vi, samples of the data sheet formats will give the reader an idea of the extent of the information available on these sheets.