First published in 1992, The Proterozoic Biosphere was the first major study of the paleobiology of the Proterozoic Earth. It is a multidisciplinary work dealing with the evolution of the Earth, the environment and life during the forty percent of Earth's history that extends from the middle of the Precambrian eon (2500 Ma) to the beginning of the Paleozoic era (550 Ma). The book includes a vast amount of data on Proterozoic organisms and their analogs. Prepared by the Precambrian Paleobiology Research Group, a multidisciplinary consortium of forty-one scientists from eight countries, this monograph was a benchmark in the development of the science of the biochemistry and the organic chemistry of Proterozoic sediments. The study aimed to generate data and analyses based on the re-examination of previous studies and on newer investigations and to build towards the future by placing special emphasis on neglected aspects of paleobiologic study and unsolved problems in the field.

Review of the hardback:‘ … a fundamental reference for all work on the Proterozoic … a compulsory buy for any institution teaching Earth history.’

Euan Nisbet Source: New Scientist

Review of the hardback:‘ … most of the contributions are short and to the point … must be considered a landmark in Precambrian geology, and a major achievement that so many outstanding scientists were organized into producing a volume that encompasses a large subject area and includes a significant contribution of new data.’

Source: Palaeo

Review of the hardback:‘ … the section on Proterozoic biogeochemistry will doubtless serve as a reference point for future studies of carbon and sulphur isotopes, as well as biomarker analysis and interpretation … this volume will surely stimulate research initiatives and serve as a key reference source for anyone interested in pursuing a more detailed understanding of the numerous topics presented.’

Source: Palaeo