The Fauna of Krakatau, 1883–1933

Abstract

PRIOR to 1883 there existed in the Sunda Straits between Sumatra and Java three small islands, the largest of which, Krakatau, was composed of three active volcanoes, Perboewatan, Danan and Rakata. From May 20 until August 28, 1883, a series of volcanic eruptions succeeded one another until with a final and stupendous explosion the two volcanoes, Danan (400 m.) and Perboewatan, disappeared entirely, and Rakata (800 m.) was split right through the middle, one half of it together with the other two volcanoes sinking into the depths of the ocean, while a cavity 270 m. deep was made in the sea-bed. The main island was originally 9 km. long by 5 km. in breadth with a surface area of 33 sq. km., of which 22 sq. km. sank beneath the sea. Thirty-six thousand people in Java and Sumatra were killed by the resulting sea wave.

The Fauna of Krakatau, 1883–1933

By K. W. Dammerman. (Verhandelingen der Koninklijke Nederlandsche Akademie van Wetenschappen, Afd. Natuurkunde, Sectie 2, Deel 14.) Pp. xii + 594 + 11 plates. (Amsterdam: N. V. Noord-Hollandsche Uitgevers Mij., 1948.) n.p.