The first comprehensive book on the biology and ecology of pharmaceutical echinoderms. Contributed by scientists of both marine biology and pharmacy disciplines. All reported echinoderm species producing secondary metabolites are dealt with. Having previously only been known as nutritional invertebrates, a book exploring the contribution of the echinoderms as sources of secondary metabolites for therapeutic compounds is timely. All 200+ images are produced in full color, providing a high-quality reference. This book provides the taxonomy, common name, global distribution, habitat, diagnostic features and pharmaceutical compounds (along with their activities) of 150 species of echinoderms along with over 200 detailed illustrations in glorious color. Among the biota of marine habitats, the echinoderms include sea cucumbers, starfish, sea urchins and sand dollars, crinoids and sea lillies, brittle stars and basket stars. Their importance as a promising source of bioactive compounds for development of pharmaceuticals and potential therapeutic applications has been growing rapidly, showing extensive application in the treatment of many diseases.

starfish, sea urchins and sand dollars, crinoids and sea lillies, brittle stars and basket stars. Their importance as a promising source of bioactive compounds for development of pharmaceuticals and potential therapeutic applications has been growing rapidly, showing extensive application in the treatment of many diseases.