Hermit Crabs of the Northeastern Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea

In any study of hermit crabs, correct identification to species level is of considerable importance. Whereas a number of identification guides to this group have been published during the last 50 years, none can be considered comprehensive enough for identifying all species inhabiting the Northeastern Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean sea. The present guide is the first of its kind to provide taxonomic keys to all known species from these regions. Detailed illustrations, synonyms, taxonomic descriptions and distributions are given for all species belonging to the Diogenidae and Paguridae; these families include the majority of the species. The various specialized terms used in hermit crab taxonomy are fully explained and illustrated and a comprehensive bibliography is provided to papers relevant to the regions.