This book begins with facies analysis. The most important lithofacies appear either as thin sections, polished slabs or outcrops. Prominent biofacies include the coral bioherms of carbonate platforms and sponge biostromes in the basin. The main stratigraphic sections are described and illustrated in foldout plates. All formations and members of the Central Jura are defined. A list of older names is added to each unit in order to facilitate the use of previous literature. The biostratigraphy of ammonites includes descriptions and photographic plates of all stratigraphically relevant taxa. The vertical range of the taxa is represented in a range chart. A synthesis of litho- and biostratigraphy is summarized in a text figure. Brief reference is made to radio- and sequence stratigraphy, which is published in detail elsewhere. The book ends with an overview of palaeogeography and the history of sedimentation.