This book has many good line drawings, and notes about the color, odor, and flavor of leaves and bark, et cetera. Such features are often crucial for identification in the field. The book is paperback, about 3 cm thick. Una Smith ------------------------------------------------------------------------- From: Jessica Rojas Gentry, Alwyn H. 1993. A Field Guide to the Families and Genera of Woody Plants of the Northwest South America (Colombia, Ecuador, Peru). With supplementary notes on herbaceous taxa. This field guide is the first ever to deal with the extraordinary diverse flora of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. All families that contain woody species, epiphytic, or scandent species in this region of northwestern South America are included. Gentry has incorporated much of his practical field experience into his book to present a new approach to the identification of tropical plants. Rather than a traditional dichotomous key, the book includes an extensive key to the families that takes the user through the most relevant character states and possible taxonomic outcomes -- much as one would do with a student in the field. An account for each family includes characteristics useful for recognizing that family; and for most families, each genus listed with a few of its most outstanding characteristics and hints for distinguishing it from related genera. Generic listing indicate the number of Neotropical species, and common names are included for many of them. In addition, most woody genera are illustrated. A common names index, scientific names index, and a listing of all figures are included. If you wish to order a copy of this book, send your name, address and phone number with your request, and enclose a check or money order with your request. Make the check payable to Conservation International. Mail to: Conservation International Conservation Biology 1015 18th St., NW Suite 1000 Washington, DC 20036 (202) 429-5660 Price of the book is: $25.00 ea. Shipping and handling is: $5.00 plus $2.00 each additional book.