Reference

Helen Morningstar's publication, "The Fauna of the Pottsville Formation of Ohio Below the Lower Mercer Limestone," is quite significant for several reasons:

1. Paleontological Contribution: Morningstar's work provided a comprehensive analysis of the fossil fauna present in the Pottsville Formation, which is a geological formation from the Pennsylvanian period. This contribution filled a major gap in the knowledge of Pennsylvanian paleontology in Ohio and aided in understanding the biodiversity and ecological dynamics of that time.

2. Taxonomic Importance: The study introduced and described a number of new species, enhancing the taxonomic records of Carboniferous fauna. This was crucial for constructing accurate phylogenies and understanding evolutionary relationships among early terrestrial and marine organisms.

3. Stratigraphic Insights: By correlating the fauna with specific stratigraphic levels within the Pottsville Formation, Morningstar's publication helped clarify the stratigraphy of the Pennsylvanian period in Ohio. This has been essential for subsequent geological and paleontological research, and for accurate dating and correlation of coal beds and other geological features in the region.

4. Educational Value: The dissertation served as a detailed academic resource for students and researchers in geology and paleontology. Its thorough approach and detailed illustrations provided a model for how to conduct paleontological research.

5. Historical Significance: Being one of the early comprehensive studies on the subject, it has historical importance in the field of American paleontology, demonstrating the depth of early 20th-century scientific inquiry and the role of women in advancing geological sciences.

For more detailed information, you can refer to some primary sources:

• Biodiversity Heritage Library
• Internet Archive
• Amazon Listing