When my father retired from the US Navy, a couple of great books followed him home, which he has since passed on to me.
"Poisonous and Venomous Marine Animals" By Bruce W. Halstead, MD (Commander Medical Corps)
A two volume medical set published by the US Govt, for use by the Armed Forces to consolidate information on poisonous and venomous Marine Animals, their source, identification, toxicology, effects, and treatments.
Foreword:
"A complete survey of a broad field of science dating back to the dawn of history is rarely attempted in this day, but the present work is an example of such a study..."
"The primary purpose of this monograph is to provide a systematic organized source of technical data on marine biotoxicology covering the total world literature from antiquity to modern times..."
"Covers Identification, nomenclature, geographical distribution, mechanisms of intoxication and biology of the different organisms. The clinical characteristics, pathology, treatment, and prevention have been dealt with at length for the benefit of physicians and first aid workers..."
Volume One - "Invertebrates"
Published by the United States Government Printing Office, Washington, DC, 1965. 994 pages.
Volume II: "Vertebrates"
Published by the United States Government Printing Office, Washington, DC, 1967. 1070 pages.
Sample Pages:
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I have great doubts that even a small portion of the knowledge contained in these books is available to most hospitals today -
So if you even think you have been stung, bitten or possibly ingested something from a poisonous marine animal...give me a quick PM and I will look up characteristics and possible treatment for you.
I have seen copies of these books on Ebay now and then. Also at alibris.com (used books)...
An interesting, if not beneficial, pair of books.
