Description

Animal phylogeny is undergoing a major revolution due to the availability of an exponentially increasing amount of molecular data and the application of novel methods of phylogenetic reconstruction, as well as the many spectacular advances in palaeontology and molecular developmental biology, or 'evo-devo', has offered new insights into the origin and evolvability of major traits of animal architecture and life cycle. All these developments call for a revised interpretation of the pathways along which animal structure and development has evolved since the origin of the Metazoa.

Perspectives in Animal Phylogeny and Evolution takes on this challenge, successfully integrating morphological, fossil and molecular evidence to produce a novel reinterpretation of animal evolution. Central to the book's approach is an 'evo-devo' perspective on animal evolution (with all the fresh insights this has given into the origin of animal organization and life cycles), complementary to the more traditional perspectives of pattern (cladistics, comparative anatomy and embryology), mechanisms (developmental biology) and adaptation (evolutionary biology). The author advocates the need to approach the study of animal evolution with a critical attitude towards many key concepts of comparative morphology and developmental biology. Particular attention in the book is paid to the evolution of life cycles and larval forms.

This accessible text is suitable for graduate students taking advanced courses in evolutionary developmental biology, invertebrate zoology, molecular phylogenetics and palaeontology, as well as professional researchers in these fields requiring an authoritative and up-to-date overview of this dynamic topic.

Features

• Authored by a distinguished scientist and leader in the field
• Integrates morphological, fossil and molecular evidence to produce an up-to-date overview of the major phylogenetic hypotheses for the Metazoa
• Applies new phylogenies to a novel reinterpretation of animal evolution including body architecture and life cycles
• Provides new perspectives on the nature of development and the prevalence of convergence in animal evolution

Reviews

"A magnificent tour of metazoan relationships, characterized by a cautious, nondogmatic approach to both pattern and process. This concise account easily can and should be read by all serious students of animal phylogeny and evolution."--Science

"[Perspectives in Animal Phylogeny and Evolution] is a celebration of the intellectual puzzles posed by the wonderful diversity of animals, an effective spur for further exploration and debate of the mysterious but unmistakable signs of unity hidden beneath this diversity. No serious student of animal evolution can afford to miss this book."--Nature

Product Details

336 pages; 14 line & 47 halftone illus.; 7-1/2 x 9-3/4; ISBN13: 978-0-19-856621-2ISBN10: 0-19-856621-2

About the Author(s)