Covering crucial topics from morphology and behavior to ecology and zoogeography, Donald Linzey's popular textbook, Vertebrate Biology, has long been recognized as the most comprehensive and readable resource on vertebrates for students and educators. Thoroughly updated with the latest research, this new edition discusses taxa and topics such as
systematics and evolution
zoogeography, ecology, morphology, and reproduction
early chordates
fish, amphibians, reptiles (inclusive of birds), and mammals
population dynamics
movement and migration
behavior
study methods
extinction processes
conservation and management
For the first time, 32 pages of color images bring these fascinating organisms to life. In addition, 5 entirely new chapters have been added to the book, which cover
restoration of endangered species
regulatory legislation affecting vertebrates
wildlife conservation in a modern world
climate change
wildlife management in a modern world
Complete with review questions, updated references, appendixes, and a glossary of well over 300 terms, Vertebrate Biology is the ideal text for courses in zoology, vertebrate biology, vertebrate natural history, and general biology. Donald W. Linzey carefully builds theme upon theme, concept upon concept, as he walks students through a plethora of topics. Arranged logically to follow the most widely adopted course structure, this text will leave students with a full understanding of the unique structure, function, and living patterns of all vertebrates.
Brief Table of ContentsPreface1. The Vertebrate Story: An Overview2. Systematics and Vertebrate Evolution3. Early Chordates and Jawless Fishes4. Gnathostome Fishes5. Amphibians6. Evolution of Reptiles7. Morphology, Reproduction, and Development of Turtles, Tuataras, Lizards, and Snakes (Testudines and Lepidosauria)8. Morphology, Reproduction, and Development of Crocodilians and Birds (Archosaurs)9. Mammals10. Vertebrate Zoogeography11. Population Dynamics12. Movements13. Intraspecific Behavior and Ecology14. Interspecific Interactions15. Techniques for Ecological and Behavioral Studies16. Extinction and Extirpation: Natural and Human-Caused17. Restoration of Endangered Species18. Regulatory Legislation Affecting Vertebrates19. Wildlife in a Modern World: Threats and Conservation20. Climate Change21. Wildlife Management in a Modern WorldAppendixesGlossaryBibliographyCreditsTaxonomic IndexSubject Index
