Zoology: amphibians and reptiles (herpetology) Books

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Book SynopsisCovering the prominent 150 reptiles and 80 amphibians found in theregion (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi), with concisetext, photograph and map for each, this is a pocket guide for a diverseand often conspicuous and attractive group of animals.Trade Review"Portable, user-friendly and relatively inexpensive, Pocket Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of East Africa is an indispensable field companion for anyone who may be interested in learning more about East Africa's herpetofauna." SWARA (April-June 2006) "...this invaluable book will doubtless also spawn exciting new discoveries." SWARA (April-June 2006) "For anyone with a general interest in wildlife, a comprehensible, portable, and fairly comprehensive field guide is a must. This pocket guide fulfils these criteria." Scottish Bird News (September 2006)

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Book SynopsisSouth Africa has an inordinate wealth of plants and animals. It is a country of superlatives with an entire floral kingdom occurring within its borders. With a land surface area of only 2 per cent of the global landmass, it contains 10 per cent of the world's plants and between 6 and 7 per cent of the world's mammals, birds and reptiles. Not only does South Africa boast the greatest number of species of land tortoises of any place on Earth, it ranks fifth in the world with regard to overall number of reptile species. Such an array of reptiles, which at last count numbered 363 species, with more being described annually, shows an incredible range of adaptations enabling these remarkable creatures to live in extremes of climate from the high mountains to desert, from coast to coast and some even adapting to an urban environment. Despite this, the daily lives of most reptile species remain a closed book. Many species are cryptic, preferring not to be seen, while others display amongst the brightest colours in the animal kingdom. They range from very small species weighing less than a gram to the giant Nile crocodile, which may achieve a mass of 1 000 kg, and include some of the most poisonous species on the planet. It is indeed a treasure house. Remarkable Reptiles offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of snakes, lizards, chameleons, tortoises, terrapins and crocodiles and hopes to provide a greater insight into the behaviour of these often maligned animals. Many reptiles, especially snakes, receive unjust treatment because of attacks on humans, while anthropogenic causes, which are far more lethal, tend to be less emphasised. Hopefully this book will contribute to, and instil respect and interest in the remarkable diversity of reptiles with which South Africa has been blessed.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A compelling historical–philosophical account of the epistemology of experimentation in the life sciences from the late seventeenth to the mid-twentieth century. . . . the category of 'methods discourse' introduces a useful and nuanced dimension of analysis for the history of experimental life science. In developing a taxonomy of different levels on which this discourse operates, Schickore lays the groundwork for further exploration of methods sections as historical sources . . . . There is exciting work to be done in linking analyses of methods discourse to studies of method-making: material histories of instruments, model organisms, and experimental systems. As Schickore's book demonstrates, methods do not stand still." * Journal of the History of Biology *"[A] magnificent book on the history of experimental methods . . . . About Method is philosophically motivated history of science at its best. Schickore’s philosophical acumen shines through the book and her meticulous historical reconstructions provide an impressive account of the development of snake venom research, over a very wide geographical and chronological span. This is a first-rate contribution to a much needed long-term history of experimentation." * Berichte zur Wissenschaftsgeschichte *"Following The Microscope and the Eye, Schickore presents her second monograph, a lively and stylish contribution to the history and philosophy of experiment. Along similar lines, recent efforts such as Steinle’s Exploratory Experiments and Franklin’s What Makes a Good Experiment? reflect the dynamism of this research area. The book under review traces over 300 years of experiments with snake venom. In addition to examining how scientists conducted experiments, Schickore parses how these individuals communicated their procedures to other researchers—a pivotal but often overlooked element of scientific life. The focus on the rhetoric of experimental method permits a series of clear and incisive comments on how the scientific community—as it grew into a profession—established, enforced, and renegotiated its standards for experimental practice. Schickore serves up lucid prose while nimbly balancing several layers of argument. Although it will be most valuable to those with some field-specific preparation, the book serves as an effective tool for introducing graduate students or advanced undergraduates to major issues in the field, as well as for motivating expansions and responses from practicing researchers. Highly recommended." * Choice *“About Method seeks to rescue methodology from Feyerabend’s more radical views by showing that, while scientific methodologies change, they play a crucial role in directing the practice of science. Her examples are informative and are firmly grounded in their historical contexts.” * Times Higher Education *"Jutta Schickore's About Method . . . has the potential to change our conception of scientists’ methodological statements drastically. . . . . Schickore recovers scientific methodology as a topic of interest and breaks fresh ground in several ways. . . . About Method puts methods discourse back on the agenda and provides a framework that will be helpful to all historians and philosophers interested in the practical and experimental aspects of science." * Isis: A Journal of the History of Science Society *"A book that quietly challenges whatever hopes we might have for finding the one true scientific method, while loudly showing us how intricate and creative diverse experimental methodologies have always been. . . . Schickore provides an invaluable tool for researchers and students of history and philosophy of science . . . . About Method is a wonderful example of long-term microhistories having a long-lasting philosophical payoff—including an increasing acceptance that we might never actually reach our supposedly beloved scientific method, because the experimental situations are forever too complex to be completely controlled." * HOPOS: The Journal of the International Society for the History of Philosophy of Science *"It surveys a three-century span not to tell a comprehensive history of venom research, but to intricately contextualise the shifting ways in which modern scientists have committed publicly and procedurally to experimental method. The focus on Atlantic world investigators necessarily side-lines scholarship on venom research in Asia, India, Australia and Africa, while Schickore’s engagement with the ethics and heuristics of vivisection is restrained rather than foregrounded. The book also treads a fine analytical line between the elaborate specifics of laboratory praxis and the literary technologies and witnessing procedures articulated by Steven Shapin and Simon Schaffer in their seminal work . Yet, written in a pleasant and at times jocular style, Schickore’s text sustains an intellectual rigour and precision throughout. In asking fundamental questions about what experimenters believed they were doing, its interpretive value for scholars across the biomedical and human sciences is undoubted." * History of the Human Sciences *"Excellent . . . . A very welcome addition to the recent literature on the history and philosophy of experiment." * Metascience *“Schickore entices us to be interested in snake venom and then shows how researchers worked their way to answers that made sense in their different circumstances. The process of uncovering what made snake venom poisonous did not follow a straight line that culminates in our superior knowledge today. She follows the complex steps forward, sideways, and sometimes backward to show how scientific understanding emerged and evolved within the complex contexts of the time. Whether about Fontana, Weir Mitchell, or recent protein studies, Schickore’s discussions ring true to her sources while also drawing out larger lessons from history and discussion of methodological and epistemological approaches to the fascinating nature of snake bites.” * Jane Maienschein, Arizona State University *“Who would have thought that a book on the history of snake venom research could yield so many interesting and important insights? One of Schickore’s great strengths is her nose for good problems and for sources relevant to them. She has an uncanny ability to probe the seemingly barren landscape of neglected developments and minor historical figures—and to find gold. Her new book adds much evidence to the claim that the detailed epistemology of modern science has arisen out of scientific work itself, in the various disciplines, rather than from grand methodological theories such as inductivism. No one has done more than Schickore to demonstrate the value of an integrated history and philosophy of science.” * Thomas Nickles, emeritus, University of Nevada, Reno *“Following The Microscope and the Eye, Schickore has produced another sophisticated treatise giving a fully historicized view of scientific knowledge and scientific methodology as dynamically evolving entities. She weaves together history, philosophy, and science into a coherent and pleasing tapestry. Her choice of subject matter in About Method is itself a testament to her sharp eye for a phase of the history of science that reveals easily overlooked aspects of practice and effectively exposes the blind spots in standard philosophical discourse. Under her deft treatment, the long and complicated history of research on snake venom emerges not only as a fascinating episode in its own right but also as a rich source of insights for a new general framework for philosophical thinking on scientific methodology. Schickore’s historical reflections also have plenty of pertinence to current methodological debates in science, such as the ongoing ‘replication crisis’ in biology and psychology.” * Hasok Chang, University of Cambridge *Table of ContentsIntroduction: “A matter so obscure, so difficult, and likewise so new . . .” Chapter 1. Argument, Narrative, and Methods Discourse Chapter 2. Many, Many Experiments Chapter 3. Trying Again Chapter 4. Newtonian Poison: A Mechanical Account of Viper Venom Chapter 5. Experiment as the Only Guide Chapter 6. Thousands of Experiments Chapter 7. Practical Criticisms Chapter 8. Controlling Experiment Chapter 9. Unobservables Chapter 10. Fragmentation and Modularity: Notes on Crotoxin Conclusion: About MethodsAcknowledgments Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisRecent fossil discoveries prove dinosaurs didn’t die out after al--instead, they turned into birds, opening up thrilling new possibilities in our knowledge of the prehistoric world.Trade ReviewIn Flying Dinosaurs John Pickrell challenges everything you were told about dinosaurs as a child... Through extensive research and interviews with leading paleontologists, Flying Dinosaurs charts how each new discovery confirmed the link between dinosaurs and birds... The author's fascination with dinosaurs is evident throughout the book. But his passion aside, it takes a skilled science writer to transform the incremental progress of a field such as paleontology into a narrative that sustains a book. -- Nicky Phillips The Sydney Morning Herald After digesting all that Pickrell has to offer, it will be difficult for any reader to think about dinosaurs -- or birds -- in the same ways they had before. Publishers Weekly [An] engaging book. GrrlScientist - a Guardian Blog A remarkable book, with a wealth of interviews with palaeontologists and a comprehensive catalogue of virtually all the findings of feathered dinosaurs since 1996. It's a useful catch-up if you have lost track of this rapidly developing area of palaentology, and full of fascinating, unusual facts-did you know that birds are the closest living relatives to the crocodile? -- Bill Condie Cosmos Magazine [Flying Dinosaurs] deftly covers the history behind the decades-old debate over just when and how birds first arose. -- Bruce Dorminey Forbes Pickrell covers the history of changing thought on dinosaurs and the bird-dinosaur link... Pickrell's book is well written and accessible, and thus is an excellent companion. -- Greg Laden Greg Laden's Blog A detailed and timely overview of our rapidly-improving scientific understanding of how massive, lumbering dinosaurs evolved into agile, flying birds. -- Mike Lee The Conversation A readable introduction to the subject. -- Ian Paulsen The Bridbooker Report [A] fast-paced... Fascinating read. BirdWatching A well-structured overview of the various lines of evidence connecting the evolution of birds with that of theropod dinosaurs... Any general reader or student interested in dinosaurs should find it a pleasure to read... Highly recommended. Choice An exceptional read... I would recommend this volume not only to dinosaur aficionados, who will find in its pages a plethora of interesting facts about dinosaurs and birds, but also to professional paleontologists who are looking for a comprehensive yet quick account on the most recent research in dinosaur paleontology. -- Marco Signore Quarterly Review of Biology Delightful and accessible. I highly recommend it for readers of all ages and backgrounds. ZME ScienceTable of ContentsForeword, by Philip Currie Preface Introduction: A whole new world Before we begin 1. The missing link 2. A feathered revolution begins 3. The dinosaur hunters 4. From dinosaur to bird 5. Fake fossils 6. The evolution of feathers 7. The struggle to the skies 8. Sex for T. rex 9. Colouring in the dinosaurs 10. Back from the dead 11. The survival game Relationships of the theropod dinosaurs An A-Z of feathered dinosaurs References Glossary Select bibliography Acknowledgments Index

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Book SynopsisAmphibians and reptiles represent an essential and interesting component of Wisconsin’s wildlife. This state-of-the-field synthesis includes hundreds of colour photographs and illustrations, state-level and North American range maps, dichotomous keys, and research and conservation anecdotes to entertain and inform.Table of Contents Foreword by Michael J. Lannoo Acknowledgments Contributors Acronyms and Abbreviations Introduction Systematics and Classification Some Prominent Figures in Wisconsin Herpetology Past, Present, and Potential Future Landscapes of Wisconsin, with Emphasis on Amphibian and Reptile Distributions Amphibians and Reptiles in Wisconsin Plant Communities Introduction to Conservation and Management of Wisconsin’s Amphibians and Reptiles Identification Keys for Amphibians and Reptiles in Wisconsin Introduction to Species Accounts Anura (Frogs and Toads) Introduction to Anura Family Bufonidae American Toad, Anaxyrus americanus Family Hylidae Blanchard’s Cricket Frog, Acris blanchardi Cope’s Gray Treefrog, Hyla chrysoscelis Gray Treefrog, Hyla versicolor Spring Peeper, Pseudacris crucifer Boreal Chorus Frog, Pseudacris maculata Family Ranidae American Bullfrog, Lithobates catesbeianus Green Frog, Lithobates clamitans Pickerel Frog, Lithobates palustris Northern Leopard Frog, Lithobates pipiens Mink Frog, Lithobates septentrionalis Wood Frog, Lithobates sylvaticus Caudata (Salamanders) Introduction to Caudata Family Ambystomatidae Blue-spotted Salamander, Ambystoma laterale Spotted Salamander, Ambystoma maculatum Eastern Tiger Salamander, Ambystoma tigrinum Family Plethodontidae Four-toed Salamander, Hemidactylium scutatum Eastern Red-backed Salamander, Plethodon cinereus Family Proteidae Mudpuppy, Necturus maculosus Family Salamandridae Eastern Newt, Notophthalmus viridescens Squamata (Lizards and Snakes) Introduction to Squamata Family Anguidae Slender Glass Lizard, Ophisaurus attenuatus Family Scincidae Common Five-lined Skink, Plestiodon fasciatus Prairie Skink, Plestiodon septentrionalis Family Teiidae Six-lined Racerunner, Aspidoscelis sexlineatus Family Colubridae, Subfamily Colubrinae North American Racer, Coluber constrictor Eastern Milksnake, Lampropeltis triangulum Smooth Greensnake, Opheodrys vernalis Gray Ratsnake, Pantherophis spiloides Eastern Foxsnake, Pantherophis vulpinus Gophersnake, Pituophis catenifer Family Colubridae, Subfamily Dipsadinae Western Wormsnake, Carphophis vermis Ring-necked Snake, Diadophis punctatus Eastern Hog-nosed Snake, Heterodon platirhinos Family Colubridae, Subfamily Natricinae Common Watersnake, Nerodia sipedon Queensnake, Regina septemvittata Dekay’s Brownsnake, Storeria dekayi Red-bellied Snake, Storeria occipitomaculata Butler’s Gartersnake, Thamnophis butleri Plains Gartersnake, Thamnophis radix Eastern Ribbonsnake, Thamnophis saurita, Western Ribbonsnake, Thamnophis proximus Common Gartersnake, Thamnophis sirtalis Lined Snake, Tropidoclonion lineatum Family Viperidae Timber Rattlesnake, Crotalus horridus Massasauga, Sistrurus catenatus Snakebite: Envenomation in Wisconsin and the Northern Upper Mississippi River Valley Testudines (Turtles) Introduction to Testudines Family Chelydridae Snapping Turtle, Chelydra serpentina Family Emydidae Painted Turtle, Chrysemys picta Blanding’s Turtle, Emydoidea blandingii Wood Turtle, Glyptemys insculpta Northern Map Turtle, Graptemys geographica Ouachita Map Turtle, Graptemys ouachitensis False Map Turtle, Graptemys pseudogeographica Ornate Box Turtle, Terrapene ornata Family Kinosternidae Eastern Musk Turtle, Sternotherus odoratus Family Trionychidae Smooth Softshell, Apalone mutica Spiny Softshell, Apalone spinifera Hypothetical and Enigmatic Species of Wisconsin Appendix Glossary Literature Cited Contributor Biographies Index by Scientific Name Index by Common Name Index by Subject

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Book SynopsisThis book focuses on the first vertebrates to conquer land and their long journey to become fully independent from the water. It traces the origin of tetrapod features and tries to explain how and why they transformed into organs that permit life on land.Trade Review“Amphibian Evolution delivers a wide-ranging synthesis of viewpoints and data on early tetrapods and the ancestry of lissamphibians. This conveniently sized volume suits a higher-level undergraduate course on palaeobiology or introductory graduate class. Clearly written and illustrated, the text provides just enough historical context to give a sense of where the topics come from and where new developments seem to be heading… In summary, this is a thoroughly useful volume to have on your shelf (as well as recommending several copies for the college library).” (Acta Zoologica, July 2017)“In summary, this is a comprehensive work that could be used as a guide to focus on specific aspects of one of the most exciting chapters of vertebrate history.” (Ameghiniana, 1 April 2015) “It provides rewarding reading, useful for students and researchers/professionals studying amphibians as well as other vertebrates. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above.” (Choice, 1 December 2014) Table of ContentsPreface viii Acknowledgments x 1 Introduction 1 1.1 Changing paradigms in amphibian evolution 3 1.2 Paleobiology: data, methods, and time scales 5 1.3 Concepts and metaphors: how scientists “figure out” problems 7 1.4 Characters and phylogenies 8 1.5 What’s in a name? 8 References 11 2 The Amphibian World: Now and Then 13 2.1 Tetrapoda 14 2.1.1 The tetrapod skeleton 14 2.1.2 Tetrapod characters 23 2.1.3 Stem-tetrapods (Tetrapodomorpha) 25 2.1.4 Carboniferous tetrapods or tetrapodomorphs? 31 2.2 The amniote stem-group 32 2.2.1 Anthracosauria 33 2.2.2 Seymouriamorpha 37 2.2.3 Chroniosuchia 38 2.2.4 Lepospondyli 40 2.2.4.1 Lepospondyl characters 42 2.2.4.2 Microsauria 42 2.2.4.3 Lysorophia 44 2.2.4.4 Nectridea 44 2.2.4.5 Aïstopoda 45 2.2.4.6 Adelospondyli 46 2.2.4.7 Acherontiscidae 46 2.2.5 Gephyrostegida 46 2.2.6 Amniota 47 2.2.6.1 Stem-amniotes and early crown amniotes 48 2.3 The lissamphibian stem-group (Temnospondyli) 48 2.3.1 Edopoidea 51 2.3.2 Dendrerpeton and Balanerpeton 53 2.3.3 Dvinosauria 54 2.3.4 Dissorophoidea and Zatracheidae 54 2.3.5 Eryopoidea 56 2.3.6 Stereospondyli 57 2.4 Albanerpetontidae 58 2.5 Lissamphibia 59 2.5.1 Lissamphibian characters 61 2.5.2 Batrachia 62 2.5.2.1 Anura (frogs and toads) 62 2.5.2.2 Caudata (salamanders) 67 2.5.2.3 Gymnophiona (caecilians) 68 References 70 3 Amphibian Life Through Time 81 3.1 Aquatic predators prepare for land 83 3.2 Hot springs, scorpions, and little creepers 83 3.3 Life in the tropical coal forest 85 3.4 Neotenes explore unfavorable waters 89 3.5 Lowlands, uplands, and a cave 90 3.6 Hide and protect: extreme life in the hothouse 94 3.7 Predators in deltas, lakes, and brackish swamps 97 3.8 Stereospondyls in refugia, lissamphibians on the rise 97 3.9 Batrachians diversify, stereospondyls disappear 100 3.10 Lissamphibians expand into diverse habitats 101 References 102 4 The Amphibian Soft Body 106 4.1 How to infer soft tissues in extinct taxa 107 4.2 Fossil evidence: soft tissue preservation 109 4.3 Head and visceral skeleton 110 4.4 Respiratory organs 113 4.5 Lateral lines, electroreception, and ears 118 References 122 5 Evolution of Functional Systems 126 5.1 How paradigms and brackets give a functional scenario 127 5.2 Feeding and breathing under water 131 5.3 Decoupling breathing and feeding 134 5.4 Hearing: exapting the spiracle and hyomandibula 136 5.5 Respiration in early tetrapods 141 5.6 The evolution of terrestrial feeding 143 5.7 Transforming fins into limbs 144 5.8 Locomotion in paleozoic tetrapods 146 References 148 6 Development and Evolution 152 6.1 Ontogeny in modern amphibians 153 6.2 Fossil ontogenies 158 6.3 Ontogeny as a sequence: developmental trajectories 163 6.4 Histology: the skeleton as archive 167 6.5 Changing shape: allometry 171 6.6 Heterochrony: the evolution of development 174 6.7 Body plans: gene regulation and morphogenesis 179 References 184 7 Paleoecology 191 7.1 Lissamphibian ecology 192 7.2 Paleoecology: problems and perspectives 193 7.3 Paleozoic and Mesozoic amphibians 196 7.4 Amphibian evolution as a walk through trophic levels 203 References 205 8 Life History Evolution 208 8.1 Plasticity, reaction norm, and canalization 209 8.2 Reaction norms in extant amphibians 210 8.3 The biphasic life cycle in lissamphibians 211 8.4 Seymouriamorphs: biphasic life cycles without metamorphosis 213 8.5 Temnospondyls: flexible uni- and biphasic ontogenies 213 8.6 Lepospondyls: dwarfism and uniphasic life cycles 215 8.7 The evolution of metamorphosis 216 8.8 The evolution of neoteny 216 8.9 General features of life history evolution 217 References 219 9 Phylogeny 222 9.1 Phylogeny of amphibians 223 9.2 The big picture: tetrapod diversification 223 9.3 The origin of lissamphibians 224 References 231 10 Macroevolution 234 10.1 What is macroevolution? 235 10.2 Patterns of early tetrapod evolution 235 10.3 Major factors of amphibian evolution 240 10.4 Clades, space, and time 248 10.5 Diversity, disparity, and extinction 249 10.6 The evolution of terrestriality 252 References 254 Index 260

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsPublisher's Foreword Abridger's Note Introduction Purpose Sources of Information 1. Status Classification and Nomenclature A List of Rattlesnake Species and Subspecies Venomous Snakes in the United States Other than Rattlesnakes Confusion Regarding Rattlesnakes Distinguishing Venomous from Harmless Snakes The Use of Common Names 2. Morphology Length Body Proportions Bulk Head and Tail Dimensions Squamation Color and Pattern Freaks and Aberrants Two-Headed Snakes Defective Young Albinism Melanism Hybrids 3. The Rattle Function and Utilization The Function of the Rattle Conditions of Use Rattle Nomenclature The Character of the Sound Method of Vibration and the Production of Sound Speed of Vibration Formation and Length Chronology of Rattle Formation Rattle-String Length 4. Bodily Functions Life Persistence and Frailty Longevity Skin Shedding The Shedding Operation Effect of Shedding on Sight Water Requirements during Shedding The Season of Shedding Shedding Frequency Locomotion Horizontal Undulatory Progression Rectilinear Progression Sidewinding Concertina Progression Rattlesnake Speed Misunderstood Features of Crawling Snake-Tracks Senses Sight and the Eye Hearing The Tongue and Sense of Smell The Facial Pits Touch Distant Detection Aggregation and Sex Recognition Intelligence 5.Behavior Physiological Temperature Limitations Maximum Temperature Limits Minimum Temperature Limits Optimum Temperature Range Temporal Variations in Habits Seasonal Variations in Activity Effects of Reproductive Cycle on Seasonal Activity Denning Dates and the Risk of Immobility Rattlesnakes as Weather Indicators Summer Migrations and Estivation Effects of Humidity Diurnal Variations in Activity The Basking Range Other Temperature-Control Expedients Defensive and Warning Behavior Disposition and Temperament Protective Coloration and Concealment Flight Defensive Attacks Warning Mechanisms Mythical Defensive Actions Distinguishing the Resting from the Striking Coil The Strike Climbing Proclivities Swimming Ability How the Rattles are Held Actions in the Water Tales of Swimming Rattlesnakes Danger from Swimming Rattlesnakes 6. Populations and Ecology The Importance of Ecological Factors Ranges Range Limits Altitudinal Range Island Habitats Population Factors Population Densities Effect of Dens on Population Estimates Rarity of Particular Species Population Trends Proportion of Rattlesnakes in Snake Populations Composite Populations Hibernating Dens and Their Uses Physical Character of Dens Den Populations Persistence of Dens Spacing of Dens Life at the Dens Animals that Hibernate with Rattlesnakes Aggregation and Dispersal Advantages of Aggregation Summer Ranges and Territoriality Accidental Dispersal. Migration 7. Food Kinds of Food Mammals Birds and Eggs Reptiles Amphibians and Fishes Arthropods Vegetable and Mineral Foods Methods of Securing Prey Variability in the Effect of a Bite Differences in Dealing with Prey Constriction Method of Swallowing Disgorging Prey Fatal Meals Reactions of Prey Food Requirements Frequency of Feeding Multiple Meals Water Requirements Feeding Rattlesnakes in Captivity Effects of Conditions of Captivity Dead Food Methods of Feeding Frequency of Feeding Seasonal Effects Individual and Species Differences Reactions of Prey Long Fasts 8. Reproduction Sexual Characteristics Methods of Determining Sex- Tail-Length Differences Male Organs Sexual Activities Birth Traveling in Pairs The Male Combat "Dance" Courtship and Mating Pattern Young Rattlesnakes Congenital Defects Young per Brood Maternal Protection and Association Activities 9. Poison Apparatus The Biting Mechanism Venom Manual Venom Extraction Toxicity Venom Utilization 10.The Bite and Its Effects The Nature of the Bite Bite or Stahl Bite Patterns Actions after a Strike The Snake-Bite Hazard Snake Bite Statistics Fatalities from Rattlesnake Bite in the United States Proportion of Rattlesnake Cases Ending Fatally Variable Factors in Snake-Bite Cases Illegitimate Bites Temporal Variables in Snake-Bite Cases Seasonal and Climatic Effects on the Gravity of Snake Bite Symptoms and Aftereffects Discussion of Symptoms by Categories Symptomatic Case Reports by Species Case Duration Causes of Fatalities The Symptoms of Crotalus durissus Bite Infection in Rattlesnake Bite Permanent Aftereffects Effect of Venom on the Eyes and Other Organs The Recurrence of Snake-Bite Symptoms Susceptibility, Resistance, and Immunity to Rattlesnake Venom Immunity to Snake Bite in Man Susceptibility of Domestic Animals Immunity in Mammals That Prey on Snakes Susceptibhility of Reptiles Effect of Rattlesnake Venom on Plants 11.Treatment and Prevention of the Bite The Treatments Proposed: Their History and Present Status Scarification, Incision, and Suction Excision or Amputation Cauterization The Tourniquet, Ligature, or Constriction Band freezing and Cold Packs Cures Derived from the Snake The Split-Chicken Treatment Milk Miscellaneous Animal Products Botanical Cures and Vegetable Products Oil and Fats Kerosene Inorganic Chemicals Mud or Earth Applications Snake Stones Narcotics and Stimulants Emetics and Purgatives Some New Drugs Veterinary Treatments Antivenin Preparation of Antivenin Specificity of Antivenins Use of Antivenin Recommended Treatment for Rattlesnake Bite The Prevention of Rattlesnake Bite How People Get Bitten; Example Incidents Lessons to Be Learned The Rattlesnake in the Blankets How Illegitimate Bites Happen Multiple Bites Human Attitudes toward Rattlesnakes Snake-Handling Cults Murder, Suicide, and War Protective Devices The Human fear of Snakes The Effect of the Rattlesnake Threat on People's Actions Rattlesnakes and Domestic Animals Animal Fears of Snakes Stock Losses from Rattlesnake Bite Symptoms of Rattlesnake Bite in Animals Rattlesnakes and Dogs, Coyotes, and Small Animals 12. Control and Utilization Methods of Control Campaigns for Killing at Dens Traps Fences Gases and Poisons Encouragement of Competitive Predators and Enemies Elimination of Food Supply and Cover 237 Bounties Fires Traffic Casualties Methods of Catching Rattlesnakes Tools and Equipment Collections of Preserved Snakes Shipping Rattlesnakes Commercial Utilization of Rattlesnakes and Their By-Products The Live-Snake Market Snake Shows 2 Venom Rattlesnake Oil and Fat Rattlesnake Flesh as Food Skin Products Miscellaneous Products Photographing Rattlesnakes 13.Enemies of Rattlesnakes Mammal Enemies Bird Enemies Reptile and Amphibian Enemies King Snakes Other Snakes Miscellaneous Reptiles and Amphibians Miscellaneous Enemies Parasites and Diseases 14. Indians and Rattlesnakes Religion, Superstition, and Folklore Rattlesnake Protection and Appeasement Legends and Tales Miscellaneous Superstitions and Beliefs Dreams Protective Measures Repellents, Charms, and Taboos Immunization Societies and Ceremonies Dances and Exhibitions The Hopi Snake Dance Snake-Bite Treatment Plant Remedies Remedies Derived from the Snake Suction and Surgical Treatments Miscellaneous Cures Rattlesnake Shamans and Ceremonial Cures Ceremonial Details Tribal Protection from Snake Bite Handling Rattlesnakes Shamanistic Magic Shamanistic Fees Shamanistic Taboos Evil Shamans and Poisoners Miscellaneous Indian-Rattlesnake Relationships Rattlesnakes as a Cause and Cure of Disease War Uses, Arrow Poisoning Art and Ornamentation Indian Field Knowledge of Rattlers Rattlesnakes as Food 15. Post-Columbian Knowledge of Rattlesnakes 16. Myths, Folklore, and Tall Stories Myths of Venom and Snake Bite Temporary Removal of Venom Glands Effect of Death on Venom Virulence Effects of Biting on the Biter Venom Transmitted through Mother's Milk Preferences in Biting Transfer of Venom to Another Animal Strange Venom Effects How Rattlesnakes Catch and Eat Their Prey Charming Prey Licking Prey Mythical Foods Folklore Remedies Derived from Rattlesnakes Protective Methods and Devices The Protective Hair Rope The Infallible Shot Repellents and Amulets Mythical Creatures Giant Rattlesnakes Hairy Rattlesnakes Rattlesnake- Bull-Snake Hybrids Queer Actions and Attributes Rattlesnake Odor Rattle Myths Some Traditional Stories Rattler Encounters with Other Creatures Rattlesnake Pilot The Vengeful Mate Swallowing Young for Their Protection Mother Nourishing Young The Fatal Boot The Roadrunner's Cactus Corral The Cabin Built on a Den The Rattler and the Wagon Wheel The Child Feeds a Rattlesnake The Thankful Rattlesnakes The Deep Freeze Tribal Heroes Miscellaneous Beliefs and Folklore Incipient Myths Dreams Superstitions about Meeting Rattlers Rattlesnakes and Weather Miscellaneous Myths, Legends, and Stories Conclusion Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisThe Pacific is not only the world's largest body of water; its vast expanse also includes an extraordinary number and diversity of oceanic islands, from Palau and the Marianas east of the Philippines to Cocos Island and the Galapagos west of the Americas. This title is suitable for both novice sightseers and professional naturalists.Trade Review"This accessible and informative guide is the most comprehensive field guide available... A must have for those with an interest in the herpetofauna of the region." -- Ian Paulsen The Guardian "This book will doubtless long be the first reference to which almost anyone will turn regarding Pacific reptiles and amphibians." Zoological JournalTable of ContentsPreface Introduction Island & Island Group Herpetofaunas Recognizing Species Identification Plates Acknowledgements Checklist Indices

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Book SynopsisIf you travel the open ocean anywhere in the tropics, you are very likely to see flyingfish. These beautifully colored "ocean butterflies" shoot out of the water and sail on majestic, winglike pectoral fins to escape from predators such as dolphins, swordfish, and tuna. This book presents flyingfish.Trade Review"Ornithologist Steve Howell's engrossing natural history is embellished with 90 superb colour photographs of the ornate goldwing and other beauties among these 'ocean butterflies'."--Nature "A mesmerizing natural history."--Scott Shalaway, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette "Beautiful... Informative as Howell's book is, the best thing about it are the photographs. The pictures of the different varieties of flyingfish captured in flight are truly spectacular."--Asbury Park Press "Charming... [A] great book for any fan of natural history and anyone who still remembers they day they discovered some fish can fly!"--Gabriel Thoumi, Mongabay.com "Watching flyingfish is one of my favorite things about pelagic trips. If you'd like to find out more about these strange fish, this tiny, but attractive, book is for you."--Grant McCreary, Birder's Library "This slim book is filled with fascinating facts, interesting anecdotes and lovely photographs about a widespread family of fishes that are almost completely unknown. Fishkeepers, fishermen, globetrotters and nature lovers--whether an adult or a young person--will enjoy this book. Hopefully, it will help inspire both research and conservation efforts focused upon these essential animals."--Devorah Bennu, GrrlScientist, Guardian "Delightful... Answers many questions about these interesting fish."--Gerry Rising, Buffalo News "The Amazing World of Flyingfish ... is amazing. Once I opened it I did not put it down... I now have a strong urge to be back on the bow, looking at the deep blue water, waiting for that mysterious explosion of gossamer and silver. Fish enthusiasts, travelers, naturalists and photographers will love this book, so buy it for friends and family. Most of all buy a copy for yourself."--Roy John, Canadian Field-Naturalist "I highly recommend this wonderful book to anyone interested in the diversity of life and/or sea creatures."--DRK, Wildlife Activist "It is a beautiful little book."--DOB, Flying Fish "This book is the kind of fare that, when consumed at a young age, can instill a lifelong fascination and concern for all things marine--perfect propaganda for seabird biologists to pass along to the nestlings on their gift list. It could easily be a book for children or adults. But make sure you take a look at it before you give it away--you may want to buy another copy!"--Robert Pitman, Marine OrnithologyTable of ContentsPreface ix WHAT IS A FLYINGFISH? 1 WHERE DO FLYINGFISH LIVE? 5 HOW MANY KINDS ARE THERE? 7 HOW BIG ARE THEY? 10 HOW DO THEY FLY? 12 WHY DO THEY FLY? 19 WHAT COLORS ARE THEY? 27 HOW CAN I IDENTIFY THEM? 34 A Note on the Photos 39 Acknowledgments 41 References 43 Index 45

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"[Sure] to become a landmark and iconic reference for years to come."---Howard O. Clark, Jr., Sonoran Herpetologist"This well-designed and superbly illustrated book offers impressive comprehensive coverage of the biology of the living families of the world’s lizards."---J. Whitfield Gibbons, The Quarterly Review of Biology

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Book SynopsisPacific Salmon Life Histories gives detailed descriptions of the different life phases through which each of the seven species pass.Trade ReviewGroot and Margolis have compiled a timely classic, beautifully illustrated with 21 color plates. The text is the current, ultimate review of the life histories of the seven Pacific salmon species. Anyone wanting the definitive word in one volume, this is it - right now. -- Charlie Powell * Pullman Daily News *This is a timely, up-to-date synthesis of our knowledge of the life histories of the seven species of Pacific salmon. * Canadian Society of Zoologists *The quantity of information contained within this volume is immense, and the book is unrivalled as a compendium of data and references on Pacific salmon life histories ... it is an excellent review and the culmination of a major effort by acknowledged experts on each of the species ... This book is destined to become a classic library reference and will probably also adorn the personal shelves of most salmon researchers and many others besides. -- John Armstrong * Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology *Table of ContentsPreface / C. Groot and L. MargolisLife History of Sockeye Salmon / Robert L. Burgner, University of WashingtonLife History of Pink Salmon / William R. Heard, Auke Bay Fisheries Laboratory, AlaskaLife History of Chum Salmon / E.O. Salo, University of WashingtonLife History of Chinook Salmon / M.C. Healey, University of British ColumbiaLife History of Coho Salmon / F.K. Sandercock, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, CanadaLife Histories of Masu and Amago Salmon / Fumihiko Kato, National Institute of Fisheries Science, JapanIndexes

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Book SynopsisContains essays written by experts in the field, addressing important aspects of the physiological ecology of Pacific salmon.Table of ContentsContents Preface W. Craig Clarke Contributors Chapter 1 Energetics J.R. Brett Chapter 2 Locomotion Paul W. Webb Chapter 3 Growth A.H. Weatherley and H.S.Gill Chapter 4 Nutrition and Feeding Habits in Relationto Life History Stage D.A. Higgs, J.S. Macdonald, C.D. Levings, andB.S. Dosanjh Chapter 5 Osmoregulation W. Craig Clarke andTetsuya Hirano Chapter 6 Excretion Chris M. Wood Chapter 7 Circulation and Gas Transfer David J.Randall and Patrica A. Wright Chapter 8 Stress and Tolerance U.H.M.Fagerlund, J.R. McBride, and I.V. Williams Index

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Book SynopsisAn up-to-date and comprehensive herpetological guide to Alabama. This richly illustrated guide provides an up-to-date summary of the taxonomy and life history of lizards and snakes native to, or introduced to, the state.Trade ReviewLizards and Snakes of Alabama will be well received by professional herpetologists and will serve as a critical source of information for researchers, including students, involved in projects on reptiles anywhere in the Southeast. It will also be a useful reference for wildlife biologists and conservationists."" - Whit Gibbons, author of Their Blood Runs Cold: Adventures with Reptiles and Amphibians and coauthor of Ecoviews: Snakes, Snails, and Environmental Tales and Ecoviews Too: Ecology for All Seasons""Written by esteemed herpetologists, this book will be the go-to resource for lizard and snake information in Alabama and neighboring states. The natural history details are factual, well researched, and the Conservation and Management section for each species articulates conservation measures needed to conserve Alabama's reptile diversity. This book contains beautiful up-close photographs that will assist conservationists of all levels in the identification of snake and lizard species and will be an authoritative reference for years to come."" - Ericha Shelton-Nix, editor of Alabama Wildlife, Volume 5 and Certified Wildlife Biologist with the Alabama Department of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisThis book is a comprehensive reference work on the biology, management and health of crocodiles, alligators and gharials. It is applicable to both farmed and captive animals.The introductory chapter describes crocodilian anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and behaviour. One chapter is devoted to important aspects of crocodile farming, namely nutrition; incubation of eggs; rearing; breeding; slaughter; and welfare. Subsequent chapters cover transmissible, nontransmissible and organ diseases, and diseases of eggs and hatchlings.Table of ContentsChapter 1: Crocodiles and Alligators 1.1: The Species of Crocodilians 1.2: Crocodilian Anatomy 1.3: Crocodilian Physiology 1.4: Crocodilian Biochemistry 1.5: Crocodilian Behaviour Chapter 2: Examination of Crocodiles and Clinical Procedures 2.1: Clinical Examination 2.2: Postmortem Examination 2.3: Medication 2.4: Surgical Interventions Chapter 3: Important Aspects of Crocodile Farming 3.1: Nutrition 3.2: Incubation of Crocodile eggs 3.3: Rearing 3.4: Breeding 3.5: Slaughter 3.6: Crocodiles in Zoos and Private Collections 3.7: Animal Welfare Chapter 4: Diseases of Eggs and Hatchlings 4.1: Diseases of the egg 4.2: Diseases of the Yolk Sac 4.3: Hatchling Diseases 4.4: Congenital Malformations Chapter 5: Transmissible Diseases 5.1: Viral Infections 5.2: Bacterial Infections 5.3: Fungal Infections 5.4: Parasitic Protozoa 5.5: Metazoan Endoparasites 5.6: Ectroparasites Chapter 6: Nontransmissible Diseases 6.1: Nutritional Deficiencies 6.2: Poisoning 6.3: Multifactorial Diseases Chapter 7: Organ Diseases and Miscellaneous Conditions 7.1: Skin Diseases 7.2: Eye Diseases 7.3: Diseases of the Digestive System 7.4: Diseases of the Urogenital System 7.5: Diseases of the Nervous System 7.6: Diseases of the Circulatory System 7.7: Diseases of the Respiratory System 7.8: Diseases of the Skeletal-muscular System 7.9: Diseases of the Endocrine System 7.10: Miscellaneous Pathological Conditions

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisAnyone who owns a gecko, has seen them in the wild, or has wondered about them will appreciate this gem of a book.Trade ReviewThis book is recommended if you are considering getting a gecko for a pet or if you just want to know more about the ecology and behavior of the 1,400 or so living species of these peculiar lizards. -- Whit Gibbons Aiken Standard [This book] successfully broadens our outlook and appreciation of these fascinating creatures. -- Aliza Gecko Time Anyone who owns a gecko, has seen them in the wild, or has wondered about them will appreciate this gem of a book. Northeastern Naturalist All you ever wanted to know about geckos is here in a nice, readable format. -- Robert E. Hoopes Wildlife Activist Geckos may very well be the most recognizable lizards, and their diversity is astounding across their near-global distribution. Geckos: The Animal Answer Guide therefore provides a general audience with a much-needed encyclopedia where they can get an answer to nearly any question they may have about gecko biology. There is no authority better suited than Aaron Bauer to compile a gecko book at any academic level, and he does a shining example here of making his astounding knowledge of geckos accessible to general readers. -- Matthew K. Fujita Quarterly Review of BiologyTable of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroduction1. Introducing GeckosWhat are geckos?Where does the name "gecko" come from?Why are geckos important?Why should people care about geckos?Where do geckos live?What is the difference between geckos and other lizards?How many kinds of geckos are there?What is the current classification of geckos?What characterizes the major groups of geckos?When did geckos evolve?What is the oldest fossil gecko?Where have fossil geckos been found?What did extinct geckos look like?2. Form and FunctionWhat are the largest and smallest living geckos?When are geckos active?Do geckos sleep?Why do geckos have big eyes?Can geckos see color?Do geckos have eyelids?Why do geckos lick their eyes?What are the bulges on the necks of some geckos?Are some geckos limbless?How do geckos climb?How fast can geckos run?Can geckos run upside down?What are flying geckos?How strong is a gecko's grip?Can geckos hang on when they are dead?Can geckos swim?Can all geckos lose and regrow their tails?Why do geckos shed their skin?At what temperatures are geckos most active?3. Gecko ColorsWhat colors are geckos?What causes the different skin colors of geckos?What color are a gecko's eyes?Is there a reason for specific patterns on a gecko's skin?Are male and female geckos colored differently?Do a gecko's colors change as it grows?Can geckos change color?Is there much geographic variation in a single gecko species?4. Gecko BehaviorAre geckos social?Do geckos fight?Do geckos bite?How smart are geckos?Do geckos play?How do geckos communicate?How do geckos make noise?Do geckos have good hearing?How do geckos avoid or escape predators5. Gecko EcologyWhere do geckos sleep?Which geographic regions have the most species of geckos?Do geckos burrow?How do geckos survive in the desert?How do geckos survive the winter?Do geckos bask?What animals eat geckos?Do geckos get sick?How can you tell that a gecko is sick?6. Reproduction and DevelopmentHow do geckos reproduce?How can you tell the sex of a gecko?Do all geckos lay eggs?How long do gecko eggs take to hatch?Where do geckos lay their eggs?Why do geckos lay hard-shelled eggs?Do geckos only lay eggs once a year?How many babies do geckos have?How is the sex of a baby gecko determined?Are some gecko species all female?Do geckos care for their young?How fast do geckos grow?How long do geckos live?7. Foods and FeedingWhat do geckos eat?How many teeth do geckos have?Do geckos chew their food?Why do geckos' eyes sink in when they bite?How do geckos find food?Can geckos taste?Are any geckos cannibals?Can geckos store energy from food?Do geckos drink?8. Geckos and HumansDo geckos make good pets?How do you take care of a pet gecko?Are geckos venomous?Do geckos feel pain?How can I see geckos in the wild?Do people eat geckos?Are parts of geckos used as medicine?Can gecko-style adhesion be useful to humans?9. Gecko Problems (from a human viewpoint)Are geckos pests?Do geckos have diseases and are they contagious?How do I keep geckos away from my house?10. Human Problems (from a gecko's viewpoint)Are any geckos endangered?What is the rarest gecko?Have any geckos become extinct because of humans?Are geckos protected by law?Will geckos be affected by global warming?What are the greatest threats to geckos?11. Geckos in Stories and LiteratureWhat roles do geckos play in religion and mythology?What roles do geckos play in native cultures?What roles do geckos play in popular culture?What roles have geckos played in poetry and other literature?12. "Geckology"Who studies geckos?Which species are best known?Which species are least known?How do scientists tell geckos apart?Appendix A: Geckos of the WorldAppendix B: Organizations and Publications Devoted (in Part) to the Study of GeckosBibliographyIndex

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Book SynopsisIn the second edition of this fascinating book an international team of experts have been brought together to explore all major areas of fish learning, including: Foraging skills Predator recognition Social organisation and learning Welfare and pain Three new chapters covering fish personality, lateralisation, and fish cognition and fish welfare, have been added to this fully revised and expanded second edition. Fish Cognition and Behavior, Second Edition contains essential information for all fish biologists and animal behaviorists and contains much new information of commercial importance for fisheries managers and aquaculture personnel. Libraries in all universities and research establishments where biological sciences, fisheries and aquaculture are studied and taught will find it an important addition to their shelves.Trade Review“With the inclusion of new aspects and the update of the content of the first edition this book is a must for all researchers in the field of fish behaviour and interaction.” (Bulletin of Fish Biology, 1 October 2011) “Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals.” (Choice, 1 March 2012)Table of ContentsPreface and Acknowledgements xv Series Foreword xvi List of Contributors xix 1 Fish Cognition and Behaviour 1 Brown, Laland and Krause 1.1 Introduction 1 1.2 Contents of this book 3 References 9 2 Learning of Foraging Skills by Fish 10 Warburton and Hughes 2.1 Introduction 10 2.2 Some factors affecting the learning process 12 2.2.1 Reinforcement 12 2.2.2 Drive 12 2.2.3 Stimulus attractiveness 12 2.2.4 Exploration and sampling 14 2.2.5 Attention and simple association 14 2.2.6 Cognition 15 2.2.7 Memory systems and skill transfer 18 2.3 Patch use and probability matching 19 2.4 Performance 21 2.5 Tracking environmental variation 23 2.6 Competition 26 2.7 Learning and fish feeding: some applications 27 2.8 Conclusions 27 Acknowledgements 28 References 29 3 Learned Defences and Counterdefences in Predator–Prey Interactions 36 Kelley and Magurran 3.1 Introduction 36 3.2 The predator–prey sequence 38 3.2.1 Encounter 39 3.2.1.1 Avoiding dangerous habitats 39 3.2.1.2 Changing activity patterns 40 3.2.2 Detection 41 3.2.2.1 Crypsis 42 3.2.2.2 Sensory perception 42 3.2.3 Recognition 43 3.2.3.1 Associative learning 43 3.2.3.2 Learning specificity 44 3.2.3.3 Search images 45 3.2.3.4 Aposematism and mimicry 46 3.2.4 Approach 47 3.2.4.1 Pursuit deterrence 47 3.2.4.2 Gaining information about the predator 47 3.2.4.3 Social learning 47 3.2.4.4 Habituation 49 3.2.5 Evasion 49 3.2.5.1 Reactive distance and escape speed and trajectory 50 3.2.5.2 Survival benefits/capture success 50 3.3 Summary and discussion 51 Acknowledgements 52 References 53 4 Learning about Danger: Chemical Alarm Cues and Threat-Sensitive Assessment of Predation Risk by Fishes 59 Brown, Ferrari and Chivers 4.1 Introduction 59 4.2 Chemosensory cues as sources of information 60 4.2.1 Learning, innate responses and neophobia 60 4.2.2 Learned predator recognition through conditioning with alarm cues 62 4.3 Variable predation risk and flexible learning 62 4.3.1 Assessing risk in time 64 4.3.2 Sensory complementation and threat-sensitive learning 65 4.4 Generalisation of risk 66 4.4.1 Generalising of predator cues 66 4.4.2 Generalisation of non-predator cues 67 4.5 Predator recognition continuum hypothesis 68 4.5.1 Ecological selection for innate versus learned recognition of predators 69 4.5.2 Ecological selection for generalised learning 69 4.6 Retention: the forgotten component of learning 70 4.7 Conservation, management and learning 72 4.7.1 Conditioning predator recognition skills 72 4.7.2 Anthropogenic constraints 73 4.7.3 Field-based studies 73 4.8 Conclusions 74 Acknowledgements 74 References 74 5 Learning and Mate Choice 81 Witte and Nöbel 5.1 Introduction 81 5.2 Sexual imprinting 82 5.2.1 Does sexual imprinting promote sympatric speciation in fishes? 82 5.3 Learning after reaching maturity 83 5.4 Eavesdropping 84 5.4.1 Eavesdropping and mate choice 84 5.4.2 Benefits of eavesdropping 84 5.4.3 The audience effect 85 5.5 Mate-choice copying 87 5.5.1 Mate-choice copying – first experimental evidence and consequence 88 5.5.2 Mate-choice copying – evidence from the wild 89 5.5.3 Mate-choice copying when living in sympatry or allopatry 91 5.5.4 Mate-choice copying – the role of the early environment 92 5.5.5 Quality of the model fish 93 5.6 Social mate preferences overriding genetic preferences 94 5.6.1 Indications from guppies 94 5.6.2 Indications from sailfin mollies 95 5.7 Cultural evolution through mate-choice copying 96 5.8 Does mate-choice copying support the evolution of a novel male trait? 96 5.8.1 Theoretical approaches 97 5.8.2 Experimental approaches 98 5.9 Is mate-choice copying an adaptive mate-choice strategy? 99 5.9.1 Benefits of mate-choice copying 99 5.9.2 Costs of mate-choice copying 100 5.10 Outlook 101 5.11 Conclusions 102 References 102 6 Aggressive Behaviour in Fish: Integrating Information about Contest Costs 108 Hsu, Earley and Wolf 6.1 Introduction 108 6.2 Information about resource value 110 6.3 Information about contest costs 110 6.3.1 Assessing fighting ability 111 6.3.2 Information from past contests 113 6.3.2.1 Winner and loser effects 113 6.3.2.2 Individual recognition 117 6.3.2.3 Social eavesdropping 117 6.3.3 Integrating different types of cost-related information 118 6.4 Physiological mechanisms 119 6.5 Conclusions and future directions 126 Acknowledgements 128 References 128 7 Personality Traits and Behaviour 135 Budaev and Brown 7.1 Introduction 135 7.2 Observation and description of personality 137 7.2.1 Current terminology 137 7.2.1.1 Shyness–boldness 138 7.2.1.2 Coping styles 140 7.2.1.3 Behavioural syndromes 140 7.2.2 Objectivity 140 7.2.3 Labelling personality traits; construct validity 142 7.2.4 Objective and subjective measurements of personality 142 7.2.5 Modern terminology and statistical approaches 145 7.3 Proximate causation 146 7.4 Ontogeny and experience 149 7.5 Is personality adaptive? 150 7.5.1 Frequency- and density-dependent selection 150 7.5.2 State-dependent models 151 7.6 Evolution 153 7.7 Wider implications 155 7.7.1 Fish production and reproduction 155 7.7.2 Personality and population dynamics 155 7.8 Conclusions 156 Acknowledgements 157 References 157 8 The Role of Learning in Fish Orientation 166 Odling-Smee, Simpson and Braithwaite 8.1 Introduction 166 8.2 Why keep track of location? 166 8.3 The use of learning and memory in orientation 167 8.4 Learning about landmarks 168 8.5 Compass orientation 171 8.6 Water movements 172 8.7 Inertial guidance and internal ‘clocks’ 173 8.8 Social cues 174 8.9 How flexible is orientation behaviour? 174 8.9.1 When to learn? 174 8.9.2 What to learn? 175 8.9.3 Spatial learning capacity 176 8.10 Salmon homing – a case study 177 8.11 Conclusion 179 Acknowledgements 179 References 180 9 Social Recognition of Conspecifics 186 Griffiths and Ward 9.1 Introduction 186 9.2 Recognition of familiars 186 9.2.1 Laboratory studies of familiarity 187 9.2.2 Mechanisms of familiarity recognition 187 9.2.3 Functions of associating with familiar fish 191 9.2.4 Familiarity in free-ranging fishes 194 9.2.5 Determinants of familiarity 195 9.3 Familiarity or kin recognition? 196 9.3.1 Kin recognition theory 196 9.3.2 Evidence for kin recognition from laboratory studies 200 9.3.3 Advantages of kin discrimination 201 9.3.4 Kin association in the wild 201 9.3.5 Explaining the discrepancies between laboratory and field 203 9.3.6 Kin avoidance 205 9.4 Conclusion 206 References 207 10 Social Organisation and Information Transfer in Schooling Fish 217 Ioannou, Couzin, James, Croft and Krause 10.1 Introduction 217 10.2 Collective motion 218 10.3 Emergent collective motion in the absence of external stimuli 219 10.4 Response to internal state and external stimuli: Information processing within schools 220 10.4.1 Collective response to predators 220 10.4.2 Mechanisms and feedback in information transfer 222 10.4.3 Information transfer during group foraging and migration 225 10.5 Informational status, leadership and collective decision-making in fish schools 225 10.6 The structure of fish schools and populations 227 10.7 Social networks and individual identities 229 10.8 Community structure in social networks 232 10.9 Conclusions and future directions 233 Acknowledgements 234 References 234 11 Social Learning in Fishes 240 Brown and Laland 11.1 Introduction 240 11.2 Antipredator behaviour 241 11.3 Migration and orientation 244 11.4 Foraging 247 11.5 Mate choice 248 11.6 Aggression 249 11.7 Trade-offs in reliance on social and asocial sources of information 250 11.8 Concluding remarks 252 Acknowledgements 252 References 252 12 Cooperation and Cognition in Fishes 258 Alfieri and Dugatkin 12.1 Introduction 258 12.2 Why study cooperation in fishes? 259 12.3 Cooperation and its categories 261 12.3.1 Category 1 – kin selection 261 12.3.1.1 Cognition and kin selection 261 12.3.1.2 Example of kin selected cooperation: Cooperative breeding 262 12.3.1.3 Example of kin selected cooperation: Conditional territory defence 262 12.3.2 Category 2 – reciprocity 263 12.3.2.1 Cognition and reciprocity 264 12.3.2.2 Example of reciprocity: Egg trading 265 12.3.2.3 Example of reciprocity: Predator inspection 266 12.3.2.4 Example of reciprocity: Interspecific cleaning behaviour 267 12.3.3 Category 3 – by-product mutualism 268 12.3.3.1 Cognition and by-product mutualism 268 12.3.3.2 Example of by-product mutualism: Cooperative foraging 269 12.3.4 Category 4 – trait group selection 270 12.3.4.1 Cognition and trait group selection 270 12.3.4.2 Example of trait group selected cooperation: Predator inspection 270 12.4 Conclusion 271 Acknowledgements 272 References 272 13 Machiavellian Intelligence in Fishes 277 Bshary 13.1 Introduction 277 13.2 Evidence for functional aspects of Machiavellian intelligence 279 13.2.1 Information gathering about relationships between other group members 279 13.2.2 Predator inspection 280 13.2.3 Group-living cichlids 281 13.2.4 Machiavellian intelligence in cleaning mutualisms 283 13.2.4.1 Categorisation and individual recognition of clients 283 13.2.4.2 Building up relationships between cleaners and resident clients 284 13.2.4.3 Use of tactile stimulation by cleaners to manipulate client decisions and reconcile after conflicts 284 13.2.4.4 Audience effects in response to image scoring and tactical deception 285 13.2.4.5 Punishment by males during pair inspections 285 13.3 Evidence for cognitive mechanisms in fishes 286 13.3.1 What cognitive abilities might cleaners need to deal with their clients? 286 13.3.2 Other cognitive mechanisms 287 13.4 Discussion 288 13.4.1 Future avenues I: How Machiavellian is fish behaviour? 289 13.4.2 Future avenues II: Relating Machiavellian-type behaviour to brain size evolution 290 13.4.3 Extending the Machiavellian intelligence hypothesis to general social intelligence 291 Acknowledgements 291 References 291 14 Lateralization of Cognitive Functions in Fish 298 Bisazza and Brown 14.1 Introduction 298 14.2 Lateralized functions in fish 300 14.2.1 Antipredator behavior 300 14.2.1.1 Predator inspection 301 14.2.1.2 Predator evasion 302 14.2.1.3 Fast escape response 303 14.2.2 Mating behavior 304 14.2.3 Aggression 304 14.2.4 Shoaling and social recognition 304 14.2.5 Foraging behavior 306 14.2.6 Exploration and response to novelty 306 14.2.7 Homing and spatial abilities 307 14.2.8 Communication 307 14.3 Individual differences in lateralization 308 14.3.1 Hereditary basis of lateralization 308 14.3.2 Sex differences in lateralization 309 14.3.3 Environmental factors influencing development of lateralization 310 14.3.4 Lateralization and personality 311 14.4 Ecological consequences of lateralization of cognitive functions 312 14.4.1 Selective advantages of cerebral lateralization 312 14.4.2 Costs of cerebral lateralization 314 14.4.3 Maintenance of intraspecific variability in the degree of lateralization 316 14.4.4 Evolutionary significance of population biases in laterality 316 14.5 Summary and future research 317 Acknowledgements 318 References 319 15 Brain and Cognition in Teleost Fish 325 Broglio, Gómez, Durán, Salas and Rodríguez 15.1 Introduction 325 15.2 Classical conditioning 327 15.2.1 Delay motor classical conditioning and teleost fish cerebellum 328 15.2.2 Role of the teleost cerebellum and telencephalic pallium in trace motor classical conditioning 330 15.3 Emotional learning 331 15.3.1 Role of the medial pallium in avoidance conditioning and taste aversion learning 332 15.3.2 Teleost cerebellum and fear conditioning 334 15.4 Spatial cognition 336 15.4.1 Allocentric spatial memory representations in teleost fishes 337 15.4.2 Role of the teleost telencephalon in egocentric and allocentric spatial navigation 340 15.4.3 Map-like memories and hippocampal pallium in teleost fishes 345 15.4.4 Neural mechanisms for egocentric spatial orientation 347 15.5 Concluding remarks 349 Acknowledgements 350 References 350 16 Fish Behaviour, Learning, Aquaculture and Fisheries 359 Fernö, Huse, Jakobsen, Kristiansen and Nilsson 16.1 Fish learning skills in the human world 359 16.2 Fisheries 362 16.2.1 Spatial dynamics 362 16.2.1.1 Learning skills and movement 362 16.2.1.2 Social learning of migration pattern 363 16.2.1.3 Implications of learning for fisheries management 366 16.2.2 Fish capture 367 16.2.2.1 Natural variations in spatial distribution and behaviour 369 16.2.2.2 Avoidance and attraction before fishing 369 16.2.2.3 Before physical contact with the gear 369 16.2.2.4 After physical contact with the gear 371 16.2.2.5 Behaviour after escaping the gear and long-term consequences 372 16.2.3 Abundance estimation 374 16.3 Aquaculture 375 16.3.1 Ontogeny 375 16.3.2 Habituation, conditioning and anticipation 376 16.3.3 Pavlovian learning – delay and trace conditioning 378 16.3.4 Potential use of reward conditioning in aquaculture 379 16.3.5 Operant learning 382 16.3.6 Individual decisions and collective behaviour 383 16.4 Stock enhancement and sea-ranching 384 16.5 Escapees from aquaculture 388 16.6 Capture-based aquaculture 389 16.7 Conclusions and perspectives 389 Acknowledgements 391 References 391 17 Cognition and Welfare 405 Sneddon 17.1 Introduction 405 17.1.1 Fish welfare 406 17.1.2 Preference and avoidance testing 407 17.1.3 Behavioural flexibility and intraspecific variation 408 17.2 What is welfare? 408 17.2.1 Sentience and consciousness 409 17.2.2 Cognition and welfare 410 17.3 What fishes want 410 17.3.1 Preference tests 411 17.3.1.1 Physical habitat 411 17.3.1.2 Breeding 413 17.3.1.3 Diet 413 17.3.1.4 Social interactions 414 17.4 What fishes do not want 416 17.5 Pain and fear in fish 417 17.6 Personality in fish 420 17.7 Wider implications for the use of fish 420 17.7.1 Aquaculture 421 17.7.2 Fisheries 425 17.7.3 Recreational fishing 425 17.7.4 Research 426 17.7.5 Companion fish 427 17.8 Conclusion 427 Acknowledgements 429 References 429 Species List 435 Index 443

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Book SynopsisFor years Albert Hazen Wright and Anna Allen Wright traveled extensively, attempting to observe every species of snake in North America in its natural surroundings and collecting data and live specimens. Their exhaustive research resulted in a famous two-volume sourcebook, first published in 1957. Abundantly and painstakingly illustrated by the authors, this personalized natural history organizes for ready reference a wealth of information on American and Canadian snakes.Across the two volumes of Handbook of Snakes of the United States and Canada are accounts of more than three hundred species and subspecies, accompanied by photographs, drawings, and distribution maps. Generous excerpts from the authors'' field journals give the reader a vivid feeling of some of the satisfactions and conclusions of the Wrights'' search.Volume I features an introductory section in which the Wrights cover snake names and such features of their biology and behavior as range, size, longevity, disTrade ReviewThoroughness, precision, and enthusiasm are traits that shine through the pages of this inspiring summation of a lifetime of experience. * Nature *

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisThis colourful addition to Iowa’s series of laminated guides inform both amateur and professional herpetologists about all sixteen species of frogs and eight species of toads to be found in the Upper Midwest states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, South Dakota, North Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, and Missouri.

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Book SynopsisFinding a salamander in the woodlands rates as one of the most enjoyable surprises of an early morning hike. Active mainly at night, these secretive, shiny, lizardlike amphibians often glow like jewels when found under the logs or rocks that many prefer. This colourful addition to Iowa’s popular series of laminated guides—the twenty-fifth in the series—will inform both amateur and professional naturalists about twenty-five species of salamanders found in the Upper Midwest states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, South Dakota, North Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, and Missouri. Common mudpuppies and lesser sirens spend their entire lives in water, never losing the gills that they developed as larvae; the lungless four-toed salamander distracts predators by detaching its tail; the eastern newt discourages predators by secreting poisonous chemicals from its skin; the flat-bodied hellbender, which can reach twenty-nine inches in length, breathes by absorbing oxygen through the folds of its skin. These, plus the well-named slimy, zigzag, tiger, and other salamanders in this guide, are now threatened by loss of habitat, pollution, and a deadly fungus. Terry VanDeWalle provides a complete description of each species as well as distinguishing characteristics for twenty-one subspecies, from the striking orange and yellow spots of the spotted salamander to the lichenlike patches of the green salamander to the prominent rounded head of the mole salamander. He also includes information about the salamanders’ range and habitat preferences, from twilight zones of limestone caves and crevices to seepages and spring-fed bogs. His comparisons of similar species and his comprehensive key are most helpful for identifying individuals in the field. Superb photographs by Suzanne Collins make this new guide the perfect companion for outdoor expeditions in all kinds of moist environments. Laminated fold-out guide.

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Book SynopsisDescribes how frogs hatch from eggs as tadpoles and gradually develop into adult frogs.

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisWritten for the millions of turtle lovers and nature enthusiasts who will find answers to their questions within its pages, this book is bound to become the standard reference for years to come.Trade ReviewThis book is a gem... it will be considered a classic very quickly. People will snatch this book up faster than a box turtle devours a night crawler! Marmorata In their new book, Turtles of the World, Franck Bonin, Bernard Devaux and Alain Dupre seek to loft turtles into the limelight by showcasing the group's diversity-its beauties, its goofies, its gargoyles. -- Natalie Angier, Science Times New York Times A guide to all the world's nearly 300 species of turtles... quite an undertaking. Wildlife Activist The volume's value lies in its up-to-date coverage of species... all readers will appreciate the wonderful color photographs, which make the book a pleasure to browse. Library Journal This superb sourcebook is the most current summary of world turtle nomenclature. Essential. Choice College-level holdings, many an aquarium shop, and any serious natural history collection must have Turtles of the World... Color photos pack every page and its information is well-rounded and key to any serious turtle researcher. Midwest Book Review A comprehensive reference. Southeastern Naturalist If you would like an illustrated guide to the turtles of the world, this is the book for you! Aquatic Mammals A significant book in turtle biology. Canadian Field-Naturalist Incredibly complete guide to the world's nearly 300 species of turtles... A superb standard reference. Compendium Newsletter The publishers should be complimented on producing another attractive book for both the novice and professional herpetologist alike. -- Harlan Walley Bulletin of the Maryland Herpetological Society

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Book SynopsisHere Plotkin and her colleagues reveal the nature of these species and the steps needed to make sure they remain a permanent part of the marine environment.Trade ReviewExtraordinary contribution to sea turtle literature. The value of this book lies in the fact that ' much of what we know about ridleys is summarized in the chapters herein ,' as stated by the editor, and I echo her hopes that this book will stimulate some much needed research on ridleys. Marine Turtle Newsletter 2009

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Book SynopsisHis inspirational story of dedicated individuals, creative endeavors, and adventure reveals what is being done and what else we must do in order to ensure that these fascinating animals continue swimming in the oceans.Trade ReviewAn interesting overview on the threats to the survival of sea turtles. Birdbooker Report 2011Table of ContentsPreface1. Sea Turtles in the Modern World: Where Do We Stand Today?2. Life in the Egg: Buried Alive under Two Feet of Sand3. Race to the Sea: Coatis, Crabs, and Night Herons—Oh My!4. To the Horizon: The First Day5. Lost and Found: Life as a Juvenile6. The Deadliest Catch: The Other Side of Fishing7. Out of the Fire: The Gauntlet Continues8. Return to the Beach: You Can't Go Home Anymore9. Nesting: Taking Back the Night10. Las Baulas: The Last Hope for Pacific Leatherbacks11. Ostional: The Egg-stained Sands of Costa Rica12. Global Warming: Rising Seas, Lost Beaches, and Genders13. The Great Turtle Race: A New Approach to Conservation Education14. Sea Turtles and Satellites: Tales of Technology15. 2100: A World with, or without, Sea Turtles?Index

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Book SynopsisWith thirty-nine known species, Alabama harbours more turtle species than any other state in the US, and its Mobile River basin is the centre of the world's greatest biodiversity in turtles. Turtles of Alabama documents that extraordinary wealth and presents each species in full, describing its physical appearance, habitat and range, behaviour, conservation, and taxonomy.

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Book SynopsisThe most comprehensive taxonomy of the anuran fauna gathered since Robert H. Mount’s 1975 volume on the reptiles and amphibians of Alabama. This richly illustrated guide provides an up-to-date summary of the taxonomy and life history of both native frogs and toads and those introduced to the state.Trade Review“It has been over forty years since the previous scientific treatment of these animals in the state was published, Mount’s 1975 The Reptiles and Amphibians of Alabama. Numerous significant changes or advancements of knowledge in species distribution, conservation status, taxonomy, and natural history of Alabama herpetofauna have taken place since then, certainly enough to warrant the series of books that started with Turtles of Alabama and the more recently released Lizards and Snakes of Alabama. I have enjoyed both of those books and know they have been well received by others I’ve interacted with, and I have no doubt Frogs and Toads of Alabama will be too."—John B. Jensen, coeditor of Amphibians and Reptiles of Georgia

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Book SynopsisAnyone who owns a gecko, has seen them in the wild, or has wondered about them will appreciate this gem of a book.Trade ReviewThis book is recommended if you are considering getting a gecko for a pet or if you just want to know more about the ecology and behavior of the 1,400 or so living species of these peculiar lizards. -- Whit Gibbons Aiken Standard [This book] successfully broadens our outlook and appreciation of these fascinating creatures. -- Aliza Gecko Time Anyone who owns a gecko, has seen them in the wild, or has wondered about them will appreciate this gem of a book. Northeastern Naturalist All you ever wanted to know about geckos is here in a nice, readable format. -- Robert E. Hoopes Wildlife Activist Geckos may very well be the most recognizable lizards, and their diversity is astounding across their near-global distribution. Geckos: The Animal Answer Guide therefore provides a general audience with a much-needed encyclopedia where they can get an answer to nearly any question they may have about gecko biology. There is no authority better suited than Aaron Bauer to compile a gecko book at any academic level, and he does a shining example here of making his astounding knowledge of geckos accessible to general readers. -- Matthew K. Fujita Quarterly Review of BiologyTable of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroduction1. Introducing GeckosWhat are geckos?Where does the name "gecko" come from?Why are geckos important?Why should people care about geckos?Where do geckos live?What is the difference between geckos and other lizards?How many kinds of geckos are there?What is the current classification of geckos?What characterizes the major groups of geckos?When did geckos evolve?What is the oldest fossil gecko?Where have fossil geckos been found?What did extinct geckos look like?2. Form and FunctionWhat are the largest and smallest living geckos?When are geckos active?Do geckos sleep?Why do geckos have big eyes?Can geckos see color?Do geckos have eyelids?Why do geckos lick their eyes?What are the bulges on the necks of some geckos?Are some geckos limbless?How do geckos climb?How fast can geckos run?Can geckos run upside down?What are flying geckos?How strong is a gecko's grip?Can geckos hang on when they are dead?Can geckos swim?Can all geckos lose and regrow their tails?Why do geckos shed their skin?At what temperatures are geckos most active?3. Gecko ColorsWhat colors are geckos?What causes the different skin colors of geckos?What color are a gecko's eyes?Is there a reason for specific patterns on a gecko's skin?Are male and female geckos colored differently?Do a gecko's colors change as it grows?Can geckos change color?Is there much geographic variation in a single gecko species?4. Gecko BehaviorAre geckos social?Do geckos fight?Do geckos bite?How smart are geckos?Do geckos play?How do geckos communicate?How do geckos make noise?Do geckos have good hearing?How do geckos avoid or escape predators5. Gecko EcologyWhere do geckos sleep?Which geographic regions have the most species of geckos?Do geckos burrow?How do geckos survive in the desert?How do geckos survive the winter?Do geckos bask?What animals eat geckos?Do geckos get sick?How can you tell that a gecko is sick?6. Reproduction and DevelopmentHow do geckos reproduce?How can you tell the sex of a gecko?Do all geckos lay eggs?How long do gecko eggs take to hatch?Where do geckos lay their eggs?Why do geckos lay hard-shelled eggs?Do geckos only lay eggs once a year?How many babies do geckos have?How is the sex of a baby gecko determined?Are some gecko species all female?Do geckos care for their young?How fast do geckos grow?How long do geckos live?7. Foods and FeedingWhat do geckos eat?How many teeth do geckos have?Do geckos chew their food?Why do geckos' eyes sink in when they bite?How do geckos find food?Can geckos taste?Are any geckos cannibals?Can geckos store energy from food?Do geckos drink?8. Geckos and HumansDo geckos make good pets?How do you take care of a pet gecko?Are geckos venomous?Do geckos feel pain?How can I see geckos in the wild?Do people eat geckos?Are parts of geckos used as medicine?Can gecko-style adhesion be useful to humans?9. Gecko Problems (from a human viewpoint)Are geckos pests?Do geckos have diseases and are they contagious?How do I keep geckos away from my house?10. Human Problems (from a gecko's viewpoint)Are any geckos endangered?What is the rarest gecko?Have any geckos become extinct because of humans?Are geckos protected by law?Will geckos be affected by global warming?What are the greatest threats to geckos?11. Geckos in Stories and LiteratureWhat roles do geckos play in religion and mythology?What roles do geckos play in native cultures?What roles do geckos play in popular culture?What roles have geckos played in poetry and other literature?12. "Geckology"Who studies geckos?Which species are best known?Which species are least known?How do scientists tell geckos apart?Appendix A: Geckos of the WorldAppendix B: Organizations and Publications Devoted (in Part) to the Study of GeckosBibliographyIndex

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Book Synopsis"Simple text and colorful images illustrate types of amphibians, including common characteristics, diet, and life cycle"--

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