Palaeozoic Fishes 2nd ed - Revised Classic on Early Fish Evolution

In this review of Palaeozoic Fishes: 2nd ed, the reviewer finds a careful, scholarly update that will appeal to students and researchers who need a historically grounded synthesis of early vertebrate evolution. The book's principal strength is its reworking of Moy-Thomas's original framework to reflect advances from the past three decades while retaining a familiar narrative, making it a valuable reference rather than a primer. Readers seeking a concise modern textbook may find the scope and depth more suitable for reference and deeper study than for a quick introduction.

Key Features

• Revised content: The second edition incorporates significant advances in the study of early fishes, bringing older material up to date where possible and reshaping chapters to reflect changing views of evolution.
• Expanded discussions: There are enlarged sections on mode of life and relationships that provide more context for interpreting Palaeozoic fish biology and ecology.
• Rearranged structure: The contents have been reorganised thoughtfully to match current thinking about fish evolution, improving the logical flow for readers following evolutionary narratives.
• New illustrations: The illustrations have been completely replaced, offering clearer visual support for anatomical and taxonomic points discussed in the text.
• Scholarly approach: The book maintains the original approach of Moy-Thomas while updating material, making it suitable as a reference in academic collections.

Who It's For

This edition is aimed at paleontologists, graduate students, and serious undergraduates in vertebrate paleontology or comparative anatomy who need a comprehensive historical treatment paired with updated interpretation. Its depth and rearranged chapters suit readers who will consult specific sections on mode of life, relationships, and fossil interpretation rather than those seeking a brief overview.

Those who should look elsewhere include casual readers or novices seeking a short, illustrated introduction to fossil fishes; this volume is denser and more historically focused than a modern generalist textbook and functions best as a specialist reference.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Thoroughly revised text brings older material into dialogue with later research, improving relevance for modern study.
• Expanded sections on life mode and relationships add interpretive depth beyond simple description.
• Replaced illustrations enhance clarity when comparing anatomy and fossil material.

Cons

• The book remains substantial and detailed, which may be dense for readers seeking a concise introduction.

Specifications

Title	Palaeozoic Fishes: 2nd ed
Author	J. A. Moy-ThomasJohn Allan Moy-Thomas
Edition	Second edition, revised
Scope	Rearranged contents with expanded sections on mode of life and relationships
Illustrations	Completely replaced illustrations throughout
Intended use	Reference for students and researchers in fish evolution and paleontology

Our Verdict

Palaeozoic Fishes: 2nd ed is a worthwhile update to a widely used classic, best purchased by those needing a historically informed, detailed reference on early vertebrates. Its revised content and new illustrations make it good value for specialists and libraries, though casual readers may prefer a more concise modern overview.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a completely new book or a revision?
The second edition is a revision that retains the original approach while incorporating advances and rearranging material to reflect updated views.

Who will benefit most from this edition?
Graduate students, researchers, and academic libraries focused on vertebrate paleontology and the evolution of early fishes will benefit most.

Are the illustrations modernized?
Yes, the illustrations have been completely replaced to better support the revised text and comparisons of anatomy.