Shells and Shellfish of the Pacific Northwest

I actually ordered this book because Harbo was referenced in another article I was reading. While my reference books did not have the specific species I was searching for Harbo's book did. I think this book is a lot more use-able in the fact that by each species photo it lists the common name, the scientific name, size, range, and habitat. Not many species reference books do this, you almost always have to flip though multiple pages to find out if the species you think it is even lives in your region. It's a 2007 reference though, so some of the scientific names are outdated as to accepted vernacular. Always check WoRMS for that.

As a newcomer to the Northwest, I sought a book that would enable me to identify the various seashells I had begun to collect on area beaches. This book is the only complete "non-scientific" field-guide type of text I have found on the subject. In other words, species are referenced by English common names, rather than simply by their more correct, but intimidating Latin names. All species are depicted in color photographs, with corresponding descriptions of habits, habitat, physical features, abundance, etc. Of particular interest are the color photos of the "shows", or siphons, of buried live bivalves.There is some room for improvement in a future edition. I would like to see more specific information on distribution and abundance, collecting techniques, and on distinguishing species of similar appearance. However, it is the best existing guide to the topic that I yet know of, and it has greatly expanded my knowledge and enjoyment of Northwest shells.

Yes

Terrific addition to my books. Easy to use for ID. Delivered in condition described.

I love this book, having grown up in the Alaska of the 1950's through the 70's, seafood was a huge part of our life and diet. This book has a boatload....no pun intended....of in depth information. Fun to read as well as highly informative. Good purchase!

Great resource on where to find the shells and pictures for identification cannot be beat!

I'm super excited to use this book, to both identify and find shells here in Juneau. Book is in great condition for being used