The study of animal development has deep historical roots in codifying the field of evolutionary biology. In the 1940s evolutionary theory became engulfed by analyses of microevolutionary genetics and development became focused on mechanisms, forsaking the evolutionary implications of ontogeny. Recently, ontogeny has resurfaced as a significant component of evolutionary change and also of population and community dynamics. Ontogeny, Functional Ecology and Evolution of Bats is a reference work by bat biologists who emphasize the importance of understanding ontogeny in analyses of evolution and ecology. In addition, the developmental underpinnings of specialized morphology, physiology and behaviour are elucidated, and the strong influence of ecology on the ontological niche of juvenile bats is illustrated. This book is an essential reference, not only for bat biologists, but for anyone working in the fields of ecology, developmental biology, evolution, behaviour and systematics.
• Unique in that it explores how developmental processes underpin the specialized morphology, physiology and behaviour of these extraordinary mammals • Written by a new generation of bat biologists • Investigates how developmental studies can shed new light into bat systematics and evolution
Contents
1. Integrating ontogeny into ecological and evolutionary investigations R. A. Adams and S. C. Pedesen; 2. Bat phylogeny: an evolutionary context for comparative studies N. B. Simmons; 3. Early embryology, fetal membranes and placentation K. B. Karim and K. P. Bhatnagar; 4. Brain ontogeny and ecomorphology in bats R. L. Reep and K. P. Bhatnagar; 5. Evolutionary plasticity and ontogeny of the bat cochlea M. Vater; 6. Skull growth and the acoustic axis of the head in bats S. C. Pedersen; 7. Ontogeny of the chiropteran basicranium, with reference to the Indian false vampire bat Megaderma lyra J. R. Wible and D. L. Davis; 8. A theoretical consideration of dental morphology, ontogeny and evolution in bats C. J. Phillips; 9. Wing ontogeny, shifting niche dimensions, and adaptive landscapes R. A. Adams; 10. Ontogeny and evolution of the hindlimb and calcar: assessing phylogenetic trends R. A. Adams and K. M. Thibault; 11. A comparative perspective on the ontogeny of flight muscles in bats J. W. Hermanson; 12. Ontogeny, evolution and phylogeny of social behavior G. Jones.
Review
Review of the hardback: ‘I recommend this book to anyone interested in bat ontogeny.’ Museum & Institute of Zoology
Printer friendly version
Email a colleague