Evolutionary Pathways in Nature
A Phylogenetic Approach

Uses phylogenetic analyses to understand evolutionary pathways; packed with fascinating examples from across the animal kingdom.

John C. Avise (Author)

9780521674171, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 4 May 2006

298 pages, 100 b/w illus.
24.7 x 17.3 x 1.5 cm, 0.614 kg

'… this book should be on every biological library shelf, from secondary school up to University Biology …' Biologist

Reconstructing phylogenetic trees from DNA sequences has become a popular exercise in many branches of biology, and here the well-known geneticist John Avise explains why. Molecular phylogenies provide a genealogical backdrop for interpreting the evolutionary histories of many other types of biological traits (anatomical, behavioral, ecological, physiological, biochemical and even geographical). Guiding readers on a natural history tour along dozens of evolutionary pathways, the author describes how creatures ranging from microbes to elephants came to possess their current phenotypes. Essential reading for college students, professional biologists and anyone interested in natural history and biodiversity, this book is packed with fascinating examples of evolutionary puzzles from across the animal kingdom; how the toucan got its enormous bill, how reptiles grow back lost limbs and why Arctic fish don't freeze.

Preface
1. Introduction
2. Anatomical structures and morphologies
3. Body colorations
4. Sexual features and reproductive lifestyles
5. More behaviors and ecologies
6. Cellular, physiological, and genetic traits
7. Geographical distributions
Epilogue
Appendix A: A primer on phylogenetic character mapping
Glossary
References and further reading
Index.

Subject Areas: Genetics [non-medical PSAK], Evolution [PSAJ], Ecological science, the Biosphere [PSAF]