Flagellated protozoa are important in two biological disciplines. In evolutionary biology, flagellates are critical to understanding the origins of eukaryotic cells and their diversification as protists and subsequently as plants, animals, and fungi. Flagellated protozoa also play a key role in aquatic ecosystems, where they regulate bacterial numbers and control the remineralization of nutrients. The aim of this volume is to provide a synthesis of information on these organisms. Chapters deal with the organization, diversity, ecology, and maintenance of free-living flagellates. Each chapter is written by a recognized authority in their field. The Biology of Free-Living Heterotrophic Flagellates will be of interest to protozoologists, protistologists, evolutionary biologists, and ecologists dealing with aquatic or soil ecosystems.
Edited by David J. Patterson, Reader, Department of Zoology, University of Bristol, and Jacob Larsen, Research Fellow under the National Agency for Environmental Protection, Institut for Sporeplanter, University of Copenhagen
"This is a very nice book indeed. The individual contributions are authoritative and up to date (references to 1990). The illustrations are clear throughout and an almost comprehensive index of organisms and subjects is included. The editors are to be commended for producing a symposium volume that stands out from the crowd in terms of organization, utility and timeless."
– John R. Dolan, Marine Microbial Food Webs, 1992, 6(1)
"The chapters in this volume are clearly written and all are informative. The book is well produced. The bibliographies are very valuable, with reference to both older 'landmark' publications and recent studies, and there is a good, comprehensive index. The organisers/editors are to be congratulated for putting together such a timely volume of particularly great value to those of us who were not fortunate enough to attend the symposium."
– M.A. Sleigh, European Journal of Protistology 29 (1993)