The Evolution of Dasyurid Marsupials: Systematics and Family History

The marsupial family Dasyuridae has a long history of study, from 18th-century naturalists to modern genomics. "The Evolution of Dasyurid Marsupials: Systematics and Family History" explores their evolution, from Enlightenment taxonomy to Darwinian and Hennigian revolutions, and its maturation as statistical phylogenetics and phylogenomics. Research on dasyurids includes diversification, biogeography, and phenotypic traits, offering a comprehensive synthesis of their evolutionary biology for students, teachers, and researchers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 15 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The marsupial family Dasyuridae has a rich and storied history of study, spanning from the 18th-century naturalists to the modern genomics era. The Evolution of Dasyurid Marsupials: Systematics and Family History delves into the captivating story of dasyurid evolution, tracing its trajectory from its early roots in Enlightenment taxonomy to its profound transformation by the Darwinian and Hennigian revolutions. This comprehensive work explores the evolution of dasyurids in the context of shifting worldviews on biodiversity, biotic history, and scientific methodologies. It encompasses the development of statistical phylogenetics and phylogenomics, which have played pivotal roles in understanding the intricate relationships within this diverse marsupial family.

Research on dasyurids encompasses a wide range of approaches in animal systematics, many of which are unique in their nature. This field extends beyond the current consensus on species relationships and delves into the intricate details of diversification timing, historical biogeography, and the evolution of key phenotypic traits. This book serves as an invaluable introduction for readers, providing a comprehensive overview of living and fossil dasyurids. It explores the questions evolutionary biologists have asked about these fascinating creatures and the inferential methods employed to answer them. Moreover, it sheds light on the profound implications of these answers for understanding the rich history of the Dasyuridae family.

Designed for students, teachers, and researchers alike, this book offers a comprehensive synthesis of dasyurid evolutionary biology. It provides a solid foundation in the study of mammalian evolution and marsupial biology, equipping readers with the knowledge and tools necessary to delve deeper into this captivating field. Whether you are an aspiring biologist or a seasoned researcher, The Evolution of Dasyurid Marsupials: Systematics and Family History is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the wonders of marsupial evolution and the intricate relationships within this remarkable family.

Weight: 1460g
Dimension: 280 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032584546