A Classification of the Living Mollusca assembled by Kay Cunningham Vaught

Now, after several years of careful searching the reams of molluscan literature, Kay Vaught has presented us with a 'state of the art' compilation of supraspedfic names in the Mollusca. The author has done the best job possible by providing a systematic listing of family and generic names, with the details of classification corroborated by the top specialists in particular groups of mollusks. This enormous task has resulted in a volume of nearly 200 pages, taking into account over 15,000 named higher taxa, of which approximately 10,000 are considered to be valid and usable (the remainder are now considered synonyms).

In addition to introductory explanations, the volume includes acknowledgements, systematic arrangement, the classification of the entire phylum, and an index to all names included. With a work of such scope, it is important to remember three points: first, read the explanations to be able to use this book to best advantage; second, there are bound to be minor errors in an effort of such magnitude; third, there will also be omissions and new names to be entered, so please contact die compiler with any data that you might have to offer. There will also be differences of opinion on the systematic placement of some names.

The compiler, those who have assisted her in any way, and the editors deserve the appreciation of both malacologists and amateur collectors for this carefully prepared work that will soon become indispensable to us all. Many smaller universities, museums and other involved with malacological collections and their proper curation will find this book their first and foremost source of information on the supraspecific taxa of the phylum Mollusca. This work shows just what a dedicated student of malacology can accomplish given the proper guidance and assistance. And, last of all, this book is priced so reasonably that all who need it can buy and make use of it immediately.