Title: Mammalogy: Adaptation, Diversity, Ecology (Fifth Edition)

Authors: George A. Feldhamer, Joseph F. Merritt, Carey Krajewski, Janet L. Rachlow, and Kelley M. Stewart

Edition: Fifth Edition

Key Themes

• Evolution and Phylogeny: Explores the evolutionary history of mammals, their origins, and relationships between different groups.
• Adaptations: Delves into the unique ways mammals have adapted to survive and thrive in diverse environments, including adaptations in body structure, physiology, and behavior.
• Diversity: Celebrates the vast array of mammalian species, showcasing their diverse sizes, forms, and lifestyles.
• Ecology: Examines the crucial roles mammals play within ecosystems, exploring their interactions with the environment and other species.
• Conservation and Zoonoses: Addresses the challenges facing mammal populations, focusing on conservation efforts and zoonotic diseases (diseases transmissible between animals and humans).

Features

• Comprehensive and Up-to-Date: Reflects the latest scientific discoveries and insights, including newly described species.
• Engaging and Accessible: Employs clear language, illustrative examples, and eye-catching visuals (including stunning color photographs in this edition) to make complex topics understandable.
• Streamlined Structure: Organizes the content effectively for enhanced learning, while maintaining its comprehensive coverage.
• Emphasis on Critical Thinking: Encourages students to analyze and interpret information rather than simply memorizing facts.

Target Audience

• Upper-level Undergraduate and Graduate Students: Studying mammalogy, zoology, ecology, and related fields.
• Wildlife Professionals and Researchers: Seeking a comprehensive reference on mammals.
• Anyone with a Passion for Animals: Interested in understanding the extraordinary world of mammals.

Chapter Headlines

Part 1: Introduction to Mammalogy

• Chapter 1: The Science of Mammalogy
• Chapter 2: Diversity of Mammals
• Chapter 3: Mammalian Form and Function

Part 2: Adaptation and Evolution

• Chapter 4: Locomotion and Support
• Chapter 5: Nutrition and Digestion
• Chapter 6: Gas Exchange and Circulation
• Chapter 7: Regulation and Integration
• Chapter 8: Reproduction and Development
• Chapter 9: Sensory Systems and Behavior
• Chapter 10: Fossil History and Evolution of Mammals

Part 3: Mammalian Ecology

• Chapter 11: Population Ecology
• Chapter 12: Community Ecology
• Chapter 13: Conservation Biology

Part 4: Systematic Mammalogy

• Chapters 14-29: Individual chapters detailing specific mammalian orders (e.g., Monotremata, Marsupialia, Primates, etc.)

Closing Paragraph

"Mammalogy: Adaptation, Diversity, Ecology" (Fifth Edition) by Feldhamer, Merritt, Krajewski, Rachlow, and Stewart remains the go-to resource for understanding the fascinating world of mammals. This comprehensive and contemporary textbook offers a valuable learning tool for students, professionals, and anyone with a passion for these remarkable animals. Through its engaging presentation, insightful content, and exploration of current challenges, this edition empowers readers to delve deeper and appreciate the remarkable diversity and ecological significance of mammals.