Abstract
The monograph first contains information about the natural conditions of Europe, the continental waters and the surrounding seas. This is followed by descriptions of hagfishes, lampreys, cartilaginous fishes and ray-finned fishes, and with regard to their morphology, ecology, zoogeography, endemic species and invasive species are mentioned, too.
Poisonous fish are also listed. The next chapter describes the history of European fishing, sport and economic fishing and the importance of aquaculture.
The importance of fish in gastronomy, their threats and protection is also mentioned. In total 326 species with descriptions are listed in the pictorial section.
A dictionary of scientific names and vernacular names of fish-like vertebrates is also attached.