The volumes of this classic series, now referred to simply as
"Zechmeister" after its founder, L. Zechmeister, have appeared under the
Springer Imprint ever since the series' inauguration in 1938. The
volumes contain contributions on various topics related to the origin,
distribution, chemistry, synthesis, biochemistry, function or use of
various classes of naturally occurring substances ranging from small
molecules to biopolymers. Each contribution is written by a recognized
authority in his field and provides a comprehensive and up-to-date
review of the topic in question. Addressed to biologists, technologists,
and chemists alike, the series can be used by the expert as a source of
information and literature citations and by the non-expert as a means of
orientation in a rapidly developing discipline.