A Visual Guide to Fish and Amphibians


Book Description

Readers will be mesmerized by prehistoric and modern fish and amphibians alike as they tour through this striking volume all about water-dwelling creatures. They'll learn the anatomy of sharks, the communicative power of different colors between fish, and how even something as seemingly simple as a tail can mean wildly different structures and shapes for different species. Readers will also jump out of the water to discover the diverse world of toads, salamanders, newts, and more, learning about the amazing adaptations of the amphibious world. History of myths involving fish and amphibians, explanations of commercial fishing, and discussions of endangered species provide a human connection for students as well.




The Illustrated Guide to Freshwater Fish & River Creatures


Book Description

This stunning encyclopedic directory contains fascinating facts about a selection of the many wonderful and varied fish, reptiles and amphibians that dwell in the world's freshwater habitats. More than 450 of the creatures that inhabit the world's rivers, streams, swamps and lakes are profiled in detailed entries. The majority of species are presented with superb illustrations, and there are maps and quick-reference data panels to pinpoint distribution, habitat, food, size and breeding habits. With over 500 glorious images to aid identification, this information-packed directory of aquatic life is likely to appeal to anglers and aquarium enthusiasts, as well as to the general reader interested in natural history.







A Visual Guide to Ecology


Book Description

Early humans became keen observers of nature by tracking prey, identifying edible plants, and noting the time of year when different plants could be gathered. Humans began to learn about the relationships between living things and the environment. As the field of ecology grew, its focus went beyond the simple cataloging of living things in the world. Ecologists also became interested in understanding how living things function and how they interrelate with one another and with the environment. With the help of content-rich infographics, diagrams, and full-color nature photographs, readers will learn how living things are classified, the environments in which they live, what ecosystems and biomes are, and the place and role of humans within the biosphere.




A Visual Guide to Plants, Algae, and Fungi


Book Description

This colorful and stimulating volume will enthrall readers with its incredible presentations of complex algae, fungi, and plant life. Students will learn that there's more to flowers than beauty, some plants are dangerous to other plant life around them, and algae can reproduce in different ways depending on the species and environmental conditions. Readers will discover that some cultures have been using healing herbs for centuries, some fungi are pathogens, and algae is found in many food products, medicines, cosmetics, and even tools. With thorough explorations of various ecosystems and detailed diagrams of various industries, students will embrace and understand the integral roles that plants, algae, and fungi play in the survival and prosperity of our world.




A Visual Guide to Reptiles and Dinosaurs


Book Description

Students will time travel to the Age of Reptiles and discover the world of dinosaurs in this vivid, detailed guide. They will trace the development of reptiles through the prehistoric periods of life on earth and learn different theories for the cause of dinosaurs' mass extinction. Gorgeous photographs and illustrations will captivate readers as they learn about the hard shells, spiny skin, and telescopic eyes of various animals in the reptile kingdom. The deadly saliva of the komodo dragon, the constrictive power of the tree boa, and the impressive jaws of the crocodile will thrill while the quirky habits and features of geckos, chameleons, and iguanas will charm in this expansive text. Students will also learn the roles that reptiles have played in myths and religions and the trouble that some endangered species face.




A Visual Guide to Evolution and Genetics


Book Description

When did anatomically modern humans emerge onto the scene? What traits did humanity leave behind in its development? What traits have we gained, and how might we develop in the future? With this beautifully designed guide, readers will learn the answers to these questions and more. They will explore the study of genetics and discover the impact this particular science has had on humanity as well as on our understanding of the rest of the natural world. They will also touch on genetic diseases and disorders, as well as the implications of genetic modification. Detailed diagrams, full-color illustrations, and engaging language round out this essential text on evolution and genetics.




A Visual Guide to Invertebrates


Book Description

Spiders, jellyfish, and dragonflies are a few of the many invertebrates that students will unearth in this visually striking, scientifically vetted volume. Readers will be fascinated by the sheer diversity of invertebrate creatures, and realize how prevalent they are in our world, from the sea to the sky. The mechanics of walking on water, the ins and outs of metamorphosis, pearl production, and varieties of venom are all covered, as well as the incredible mutual biological relationships that some species share. In addition to the exotic and the strange, readers will discover how many common invertebrates they might find in their own home, the history and practice of beekeeping, and the connections to disease that some invertebrates have.




A Visual Guide to Birds


Book Description

From beaks and flying styles to nests and dances, readers of this vibrant book will learn about the basic characteristics and fascinating variations of different bird species. They will become familiar with how different birds are born and develop, how birds migrate in different parts of the world, and how birds develop different strategies for defense against predators. In addition to the scientifically accurate and informative text, captivating visuals will introduce readers to the hoatzin of the Amazon, the grey crowned crane of eastern and southern Africa, the tawny frogmouth of Australia, and more. Readers will also connect to more common birds, learn about bird domestication, and realize the dangers that endangered species of birds face.




Nature Guide: Snakes and Other Reptiles and Amphibians


Book Description

From tiny frogs in the rainforests to giant tropical crocodiles and desert lizards and snakes, explore the entire range of these cold-blooded creatures in this compact guide, filled with stunning photography, a comprehensive catalog of reptiles and amphibians, and key data organized in easily accessible panels.