Title: The evolution of vertebrate design /
Authors: Radinsky, Leonard B.
Publisher: University of Chicago Press,
Year: 1987
Subjects: Vertebrates Evolution; Vertebrates, Fossil
Abstract: The Evolution of Vertebrate Design is a solid introduction to vertebrate evolution, paleontology, vertebrate biology, and functional, comparative anatomy. Its lucid style also makes it ideal for general readers intrigued by fossil history. Clearly drawn diagrams illustrate biomechanical explanations of the evolution of fins, jaws, joints, and body shapes among vertebrates. A glossary of terms is included. "A luminous text is matched by lucid drawings rationally placed. . . . A great teaching monograph, the book will charm lay readers of fossil history. For virtually every college & public collection."Scitech Book News.--Annotation Published: March 2014.
Contents: Introduction: Fossils and phylogeny -- Evolution: Patterns and process -- The Basic vertebrate body plan -- The Earliest fossil vertebrates: The ostracoderms -- The First jawed fishes -- Early bony and cartillaginous fishes -- Later bony fishes -- Designs for land life -- The Amphibians -- Early reptiles -- The Great reptile land radiations -- Lesser land and amphibious radiations -- Reptile designs for marine life -- Reptile designs for flight -- The Origin of mammals -- Diversity of mammalian design -- The evolutionary radiations of the mammals.