The Origin and Early Evolutionary History of Snakes

Snakes are a diverse group of reptiles found on all continents except Antarctica, with over 4,000 species. They have a unique morphology and ecology, feeding on a variety of prey. Their origin and early evolution have been a subject of study for decades, and recent advances in molecular and systematic biology have shed new light on their history. This volume summarizes and discusses the current state of knowledge on snakes, providing reviews, syntheses, and new data for students and researchers in evolutionary biology, neontology, and palaeontology.

Format: Hardback
Length: 488 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Snakes, a fascinating group of reptiles, encompass a staggering diversity of nearly 4,000 extant species that thrive across all major continents except Antarctica. These remarkable creatures exhibit a remarkable range of morphological and ecological adaptations, including burrowing, arboreal, and marine forms, allowing them to exploit a diverse spectrum of prey, ranging from tiny insects to large mammals. In stark contrast to their closest lizard relatives, snakes have evolved unique characteristics that have captivated evolutionary biologists for centuries. Their origins and early diversification have posed significant challenges and fueled ongoing research, drawing expertise from diverse fields such as palaeontology, ecology, physiology, embryology, phylogenetics, and molecular biology. Over the past 25 years, there has been a remarkable surge of interest in this field, driven by the discovery of new fossil material and the development of innovative techniques in molecular and systematic biology. This comprehensive volume aims to summarize and explore the current state of knowledge on the origin and early evolution of snakes. It provides in-depth reviews, syntheses, and cutting-edge data on a wide range of topics relevant to students and researchers in evolutionary biology, neontology, and palaeontology. By examining the latest research and debates, this book offers valuable insights into the complex processes that have shaped the evolution of these remarkable reptiles and their remarkable adaptations to diverse environments.

Weight: 1368g
Dimension: 209 x 261 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108837347