Description
Book SynopsisBeautifully illustrated and approachable, this is the only California-specific, statewide book devoted to all groups of insects. Completely revised for the first time in over 40 years, Field Guide toCalifornia Insectsnow includes over 600 insect species, each beautifully illustrated with color photographs. Engaging accounts focus on distinguishing features, remarkable aspects of biology, and geographical distribution in the state. An accessible and compact introduction to identifying, understanding, and appreciating these often unfamiliar and fascinating creatures, this guide covers insects that readers are likely to encounter in homes and natural areas, cities and suburbs, rural lands and wilderness. It also addresses exotic and invasive species and their impact on native plants and animals. Field Guide to California Insects remains the definitive portable reference and a captivating read for beginners as well as avid naturalists.
Trade Review"When it comes to natural history field guides for the United States at the state level, no series ever published can even approach the California Natural History Guides for either breadth or depth of coverage." * Well-read Naturalist *
"A fantastic book—well-researched, well-written, well-illustrated, and an opportunity for you to become not a Big Game Hunter, but a Little Game Hunter."
* Bug Squad *
Table of ContentsPreface
INTRODUCTION
What Is an Insect? Growth and Reproduction
Breathing and Circulation
Feeding
Stinging Distribution and Diversity of the California Insect Fauna Topography
Geographical Distribution
Diversity
Microhabitats Making an Insect Collection
Classification Names Synopsis of Hexapods and the Orders of Insects
ACCOUNTS: SYSTEMATIC TREATMENT
Coneheads (Class Protura)
Two-pronged Bristletails (Class Diplura)
Springtails (Class Collembola)
Insects (Class Insecta)
Acknowledgments
Glossary
Bibliography
Online Resources
Photo Credits
Index
About the Authors
