The Colonisation of Land: Origins and Adaptations of Terrestrial Animals

Little, Colin & Kitching, J.A.

ISBN 10: 0521252180 / ISBN 13: 9780521252188

Published by Cambridge University Press, 1983

Illustrated, quarto, pp viii, 290, a small letter stamped on the title page, otherwise very clean internally, pictorial boards rubbed and a little worn. Still a good sound copy. [The book traces the ways in which terrestrial animals have evolved from aquatic ancestors and discusses the means by which they are adapted to life on land. The most important physiological adaptations are those involving salt and water balance, the excretion of nitrogen, reproductive mechanisms and the sense organ and these are given priority. Evidence from fossil history is combined with that from the ecology and physiology of present-day species to assess the probable routes along which various evolutionary lines had moved on to land. Individual chapters are concerned with specific animal groups and emphasis is placed on comparisons of physiological mechanisms between closely related animals before attempting wider generalisations. The book closes with a brief account of the recolonisation of the sea and fresh waters by terrestrial animals.]. Seller Inventory # 014850

Synopsis:

The book traces the ways in which terrestrial animals have evolved from aquatic ancestors and discusses the means by which they are adapted to life on land. The most important physiological adaptations are those involving salt and water balance, the excretion of nitrogen, reproductive mechanisms and the sense organ and these are given priority. Evidence from fossil history is combined with that from the ecology and physiology of present-day species to assess the probable routes along which various evolutionary lines had moved on to land. Individual chapters are concerned with specific animal groups and emphasis is placed on comparisons of physiological mechanisms between closely related animals before attempting wider generalisations. The book closes with a brief account of the recolonisation of the sea and fresh waters by terrestrial animals.

Book Description: The book traces the ways in which terrestrial animals have evolved from aquatic ancestors and discusses the means by which they are adapted to life on land. The most important physiological adaptations are those involving salt and water balance, the excretion of nitrogen, reproductive mechanisms and the sense organ and these are given priority.

Bibliographic Details

Title: The Colonisation of Land: Origins and ...
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Publication Date: 1983
Binding: Boards
Condition: Good
Edition: First Edition.