Our knowledge of extinct animals depends almost entirely upon the study of fossils. This richly illustrated book clothes the skeletons of dinosaurs and other Mesozoic reptiles with flesh, and shows how these fascinating animals evolved and probably lived. Expert author John L. Cloudsley-Thompson provides an interesting synthesis of current views on their ecology, physiology and behaviour, and outlines the various hypotheses that have been proposed to explain their extinction. Numerous beautiful drawings of the animals and their environment illustrate this exciting monograph.
An introduction to the evolution and adaptation of amphibians and reptiles, bridging the gulf between the plethora of 'popular' books and the more advanced texts directed towards the needs of specialist research workers, thus making it accessible to advanced students worldwide. It explains basic principles in non-technical terms, and covers the adaptive responses to natural selection which have engendered the diversity of forms that exist in the fossil record and are found in the world today. The book also includes the extinct forms such as dinosaurs, ichthyosaurs and plesiosaurs, and concludes with a dsicussion of relationships with mankind and the preservation of diversity. XXXXXXX Neuer Text This title is an introduction to the evolution and adaptation of amphibians and reptiles, which is accessible to a wide range of readers. Basic principles are explained in non-technical terms, and the adaptive responses to natural selection which have engendered the diversity of forms that exist in the fossil record and that are found in the world today are covered. In the concluding chapter, the relationship between mankind and the preservation of diversity is discussed.
The desert environment has led to a variety of adaptations in its flora and fauna, both morphological and physiological. Many plants and small animals not only survive but thrive in these conditions by avoiding thermal extremes and refining their abilities to conserve water. The biotic interactions among desert species often rely on established principles, but arid conditions can enhance the complexities of relationships between predators and prey, parasites and hosts, and herbivores and plants. This discussion will explore these interactions, their feedback effects, community processes, and population dynamics specific to the desert. The physical conditions that impact these relationships include the desert's openness and limited cover, which consists of scattered plants, rocks, and ground crevices. Unlike many other ecosystems, nightfall does not provide concealment due to the clarity of the atmosphere, allowing bright starlight to illuminate the landscape. This means adaptive coloration remains crucial at all times, as the moonlight enhances visibility across the terrain. The unique challenges and adaptations of desert life highlight the intricate balance of survival and interaction among species in this harsh environment.
