Marine Mammal Biology: An Evolutionary Approach [Paperback]

A. Rus Hoelzel (Editor)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 1, 2002 | ISBN-10: 0632052325 | ISBN-13: 978-0632052325 | Edition: 1

This book provides a general introduction to the biology of marine mammals, and an overview of the adaptations that have permitted mammals to succeed in the marine environment. Each chapter, written by experts in their field, will provide an up-to-date review and present the major discoveries and innovations in the field. Important technical advances such as satellite telemetry and time-depth-recorders will be described in boxes.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"This book represents an authoritative and up to date account of our understanding of the biology of marine mammals. Although it does include quite a bit of technical detail, the inclusion of simple chapter summaries and numerous explanatory boxes, ensure that it will be accessible to a range of readers from undergraduate biology students to professional marine mammal biologists. If I taught an undergraduate course in marine mammal biology, I would make it my recommended text. As a marine mammal biologist, I know that I will be reaching for it often over the next few years." Marine Mammal Science

"This is a very well illustrated text dealing with a fascinating groups of animals. Although it is an advanced text (the 'introductory' nature alluded to being best for those with some biological training) there is much to gained for the beginner. There is a wealth of detail which could be used in many educational contexts making this book more of a reference aid than straight textbook. It provides information on mammal biology helpful in discussions about broader ecological aspects which cannot easily be found elsewhere." TEGNews

"In 14 chapters, some 27 specialists have captured the essence of all asepcts of life forms - behavioural characteristics, ecology and conservation needs - of 121 species of marine mammals occupying three taxonomic orders... A must for college and universities that have storng biology, ecology, or marine biology programs, as well as for larger public libraries." CHOICE

"This book, intended for students of marine biology, ecology, or evolution, presents a broad spectrum of topics in remarkable detail." Northeastern Naturalist

"This book successfully surveys the whole of marine mammal biology. Previous attempts are dated or less sweeping and so I recommend that all marine mammalogists own or at least have access to this book." Trends in Ecology and Evolution

"I think Hoelzel has timed this quite nicely as there is definitely a demand for such a book, and there have been a number of scientific breakthroughs in the last 10-15 years that have revolutionised our understanding of this subject." Dr Rob Harcourt, Macquarie University, Australia

"This is an exciting proposal, describing a book that is long overdue. Hoelzel is an innovative and productive scientist with a flare for writing, and he is as well placed as any to steer a volume of this scope and complexity to a successful conclusion." Dr Tony Martin, British Antarctic Survey, Cambridge

From the Back Cover

This volume brings together some of the best known and respected experts in the field of marine mammal biology to provide a cohesive and accessible text. A very broad scope of topics and examples are classified as marine mammals; the whales, dolphins and porpoises (cetaceans), seals, sea lions, fur seals and walruses (pinnipeds), manatees and dugongs (sirenians), and the sea otter and polar bear (carnivores). Topics covered include diversity, distribution and evolutionary patterns, anatomical and physiological adaptations, vocal and social behaviour, problem solving and memory, feeding ecology and energetics, life history and reproductive strategies, patterns of movement and population genetics, and conservation and management. Chapters are fully cross-referenced and illustrated, and the citations are numerous and current. All chapters are united by the theme of evolutionary context, addressing the question of how these diverse mammalian species have adapted to life in the oceans. The intended audience includes students of marine biology, ecology and evolution, as well as professionals with an interest in marine mammals, evolutionary pattern and process, zoology and ecology.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 448 pages
• Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell; 1 edition (April 1, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0632052325
• ISBN-13: 978-0632052325
• Product Dimensions: 7.5 x 0.9 x 9.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #487,729 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good, simple approach and almost all inclusive., June 25, 2007

By 

M. Menefee "farm boy" (Silver Spring, MD USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Marine Mammal Biology: An Evolutionary Approach (Paperback)

Great book at giving the readers dynamic information not just about marine mammals, but also their systematic relationships. It is inclusive of both fossil and extant taxa. Covers most aspects of pinniped, cetacea, and sirenian biology. It is highly understandable to the novice of phylogenetic systematics.

2.0 out of 5 stars Remarkably BORING!, September 1, 2011

By 

Emma - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Marine Mammal Biology: An Evolutionary Approach (Paperback)

This was the assigned text book for the marine mammal course I took at Eckerd College. Unfortunately the book was a drag to read because it was boring. Completely in black and white and extremely dry. It is definitely thorough, if you can keep your eyes open.