From:
Edward Forbes
To:
Charles Robert Darwin
Date:
[after 14 Feb 1845]
Source of text:
DAR 43.1: 47–8
Summary:
Sends information on Gryphaea orientalis. [See South America, p. 212.]
Contributor:
Darwin Correspondence Project
Sends information on Gryphaea orientalis. [See South America, p. 212.]
Discusses checks on growth of species population; use of term "mutation" in his species theory. His belief in species mutability.
Agrees that CD’s fossil shells do not differ from those ADd’O saw in South America. Apparent differences due to errors by G. B. Sowerby. Collection magnificent; recommends special publication. Enabled ADd’O to correct error in dating of sandstone of Concepción. Lists geological periods represented in collection from Jurassic to Diluvian. Collection includes unusual group of crepidules.
Identifications of CD’s fossil shells. New species marked; many described previously by ADd’O.