Following an important introductory section on ‘How to use this Book’, the work is divided into two parts. The first contains clear, illustrated instructions on breeding and rearing equipment and techniques; a breeder’s diary; a note on conservation; and a list of botanical literature. The second, main part gives detailed rearing instructions by species, or for closely related species with similar requirements by genus, for macro- and microlepidoptera from nearly every family found in the area – over 1000 species. The book also contains a select bibliography of works on British and European Lepidoptera and a complete dual index to both insects and plants. Additional material for the English Edition contributed by A. Maitland Emmet (Microlepidoptera); Jim Reid (Geometridae); and Brian O. C. Gardiner (Semi-synthetic diet).