From the Back Cover:
Amphibians and reptiles occupy a crucial position in the evolution of vertebrates and therefore are representative of many of the transitions that eventually resulted in the evolution of mammals and birds. The Second Edition of Herpetology synthesizes what is known about the biology and systematics of amphibians and reptiles, combining thoroughly revised and expanded text discussions with informative, largely new graphics and numerous color illustrations.
Herpetology is and ideal text for an undergraduate-level introductory course, but will also be of interest to faculty, researchers, and graduate students as a source of information about these interesting animals. Because of its broad coverage, Herpetology is relevant to courses in vertebrate biology, ecology, behavior, systematics, and evolution.
Key features
* Evolution and morphology of amphibians and reptiles
* Reproduction and life histories
* Physiological ecology emphasizing water balance, temperature, and energy
* Behavior, including spacing, social behavior, foraging, and predator escape
* Integration of population and community ecology with conservation biology
* Detailed taxonomic accounts of all higher taxa, including high-quality distribution maps and color photographs
From reviews of the First Edition:
"This will be a valued, and oft-consulted, addition to any naturalist's or conservationist's library for its up-to-date comprehensive overview of these ecologically important groups and their role in the contemporary environment; it is a must for anyone just starting into the field of herpetology...".
--CANADIAN FIELD NATURALIST
About the Author:
Dr. Vitt is a reptile ecologist who received his Ph.D. from Arizona Sate University in 1976. He was a Professor at UCLA for 8 years and Professor and Curator at the Sam Noble Museum at the University of Oklahoma for 21 years. He currently maintains Emeritus status. He has had extensive field experience in American deserts and New World tropics, especially Brazil. He has published more than 250 research articles and 8 books. Awards include appointment as a George Lynn Cross Research Professor at the University of Oklahoma, membership in the Brazilian Academy of Scientists, Distinguished Alumnus (Western Washington University), Distinguished Herpetologist (Herpetologist League), and two book awards.
Dr. Caldwell is an amphibian biologist who received her Ph.D. from the University of Kansas in 1974. She was a Professor of Biology and Curator at the Sam Noble Museum at the University of Oklahoma for 21 years, where she received recognition for outstanding research. She is now Professor Emeritus and Curator Emeritus. Dr. Caldwell conducted field research in tropical forests in Brazil and other South American countries that resulted in publication of numerous scientific articles. She served as President of the Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles and as editor of several scientific journals. She participated is various projects with the goal of encouraging young people, especially girls, to choose careers in science.
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