american fern journal: volume 83 number 4 (1993); pp. 134

Review

Scandinavian Ferns by Benjamin Ĝllgaard and Kirsten Tind. 1993. Rhodos, International Science and Art Publisher, Copenhagen. 317 pp, 103 line drawings, 114 color plates. Folio (25 x 34 cm). Paperback, ISBN 87-7245-530-6, Dan. Kr. 375.00; Hardback, ISBN 87-7245-532-2, Dan. Kr. 425.00.

The 72 species of pteridophytes in the Scandanavian region (Denmark, Norway, and Sweden) are amply described and discussed as to their systematics, morphology, ecology, distribution, and economic uses. The keys are simple and quite workable. The technical aspects provide a most useful floristic tool, even though the large size renders field-use unlikely. There is a good reason for making this book suitable for the coffee-table. The full-color illustrations by K. Tind are visually stunning, reminiscent of botanical artwork of generations past. The artwork alone provides a splendor sufficient to sustain one throughout a long winter. Many of the illustrations show the habit and associates of the ferns, particularly useful in knowing and locating the more diminuative members of the flora. The authors are to be congratulated. - James H. Peck, Department of Biology, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Little Rock, AR 72204.