[Aqualist] Evolution and Biogeography of Australasian Vertebrates

[Tim Barrows]

 From John Merrick <jmerrick at gse.mq.edu.au>

Now available:

EVOLUTION AND
BIOGEOGRAPHY
OF AUSTRALASIAN
VERTEBRATES

EDITED BY:
J.R. Merrick
M. Archer
G.M. Hickey
M.S.Y. Lee


Summary of Features

This large reference volume (Reduced A4: 275 x 
210 mm, 942 pp.) provides a comprehensive overview of the
knowledge of vertebrate diversity within 
Australasia, together with discussion of the factors that influenced the
evolution and distributions of the faunas we see 
today. By considering the major forces shaping the extant vertebrate
assemblages, using new techniques and strategies, 
we can formulate ideas about how to best conserve and manage
these dynamic vertebrate groups as well as the 
ecosystem complexes on which they depend.

The 38 chapters are divided into 7 major 
sections. The first group of chapters covers the general topics of
classification and evolution, together with 
geologic and climatic processes influencing environments and
biogeography of parts of Australasia. Then follow 
5 sections that each concentrate on a
major vertebrate grouping, from primitive jawless fishes to specialized marine
mammals and humans. The final section focuses on 
the future, describing some of the
latest techniques and systems used for assessing biodiversity and assisting in
conservation management.

Each chapter is fully sourced and illustrated 
with line diagrams, as well as other
figures next to the relevant text. Attempts have 
been made to maintain a clear, informal
style for readers without specialized knowledge 
and a humorous or irreverent essence
when appropriate. The 136 colour plates are 
distributed throughout the book as close to
the related chapters as possible. A general combined Index is at the back.

Over 50 leading researchers, from all parts of 
Australasia and elsewhere, have combined as authors and coauthors
to make this a ground-breaking volume of 
international significance. This resource book follows in the
tradition of Vertebrate Zoogeography & Evolution 
in Australasia (edited by Archer and Clayton) released in 1984.
This new title is a natural development providing 
a balanced updated coverage of the field. It is hoped this book will:
increase awareness of the unique Australasian 
vertebrate faunas; emphasize the importance of Australasian
environments and the associated biodiversity; 
provide background for decisions that limit biodiversity loss in the
region—against the trend in the current world-wide extinction crisis.

ISBN: 0 9757790 1 X Cost: Casebound $AUD 230.00 (incl. GST) plus postage
0 9757790 0 1 Paperback $AUD 170.00 (incl. GST) plus postage
For a summary of postage and packing charges please see www.auscipub.com