This is a reprint of the second edition of Dr Rayner's standard text on the stratigraphy and historical geology of the British Isles. The book is written for undergraduates and other readers who may have only a general acquaintance with the broad principles of geology. An introductory chapter reviews the basic principles of stratigraphy, geochronology and tectonics. The various geological systems found in the British Isles are then considered in turn. A valuable feature of the book is the extensive treatment of different regional areas within the discussion of a particular geological system. In the final chapter the author reviews briefly those major economic resources that are related to stratigraphy. Throughout the text care has been taken to introduce the plate tectonic interpretation of stratigraphic features. Much more is known about the neighbouring continental shelf and the geology of sea floors and this also is included in order to provide a comprehensive integrated account of the geological history of the British Isles.

Darriwilian to Sandbian (Ordovician) Graptolites from Northwest China analyzes the significance of these exquisite, mostly pyritic, graptolites of the middle to late Ordovician period from North China and Tarim, China—locations that have developed the world's most complete successions of strata and fossil records. The book provides the first systematic account of the renowned graptolite faunas, with over 100 species belonging to 45 genera and 15 families preserved in black shale and limestone, also presenting a comprehensive accounting of the graptolites during the critical transition from the middle to late Ordovician period with important data on new morphologies, the latest conventions in classification, diversity change and evolution, refined biostratigraphy divisions, and correlation with other major regions or continents. The book provides a key resource for paleontologists, stratigraphic specialists, petroleum geologists, and graduate students in varying fields of geology. - Presents the first systematic accounting of these world-renowned graptolite fauna - Provides an ideal reference for those interested in rocks, fossils, and biostratigraphy - Presents over 100 species belonging to 45 genera and 15 families preserved in black shale and limestone - Includes research from the top, most influential, Ordovician graptolite and conodont paleontologists in the world - Generously illustrated with four-color figures and photos throughout