Evolution: The Origins and Mechanisms of Diversity

Evolution is the single unifying principle of biology and is core to everything in the life sciences. This textbook covers both this history and the mechanisms of speciation, providing students with the background needed to read the research literature on evolution. It also includes introductory appendices that provide background knowledge on the diversity of life today, fossils, the geology of Earth, and the history of evolutionary thought.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 514 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Evolution, the fundamental principle of biology, holds paramount importance in understanding the intricate tapestry of life. Over a century of tireless research by scientists from diverse fields has unraveled the intricate history of life across the vast expanse of the phyla, shedding light on the mechanisms that give rise to new species. This comprehensive textbook serves as a comprehensive guide, encompassing both the historical narrative and the intricate mechanisms of speciation. Its primary objective is to equip students with the necessary background to delve into the extensive research literature on evolution. Within its pages, students will embark on a journey of discovery, exploring topics such as cladistics, molecular phylogenies, the molecular-genetic basis of evolutionary change, including the crucial role of protein networks, symbionts, and holobionts. Furthermore, the book delves into the core principles of developmental biology, providing a foundational understanding of the processes that shape the evolution of organisms. To enhance the learning experience, introductory appendices offer valuable background knowledge on diverse topics such as the remarkable diversity of life today, the enigmatic world of fossils, the geological wonders of Earth, and the profound insights into the history of evolutionary thought.

Summarizing the origins of life and the evolution of the eukaryotic cell and of Urbilateria, the last common ancestor of invertebrates and vertebrates, the textbook provides a foundational understanding of the evolutionary journey. It reviews the history of life across the phyla, drawing upon the fossil record and computational phylogenetics to unravel the intricate tapestry of life's development. Explaining the concept of evo-devo and the generation of anatomical novelties, the textbook illustrates the roles of small populations, genetic drift, mutation, and selection in the process of speciation. Furthermore, it documents human evolution using the fossil record and evidence of dispersal across the world, leading to the emergence of modern humans.

In conclusion, this textbook serves as a vital resource for students seeking to delve into the captivating world of evolution. It provides a comprehensive and engaging overview of the history, mechanisms, and principles of speciation, while also offering insights into the remarkable diversity of life and the evolution of humanity. With its rich content and accessible writing style, it equips students with the knowledge and tools needed to explore the wonders of evolution and its profound impact on our understanding of the natural world.

Weight: 1606g
Dimension: 210 x 278 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367357016