They can provide general background information to help narrow or broaden the focus of a topic, define unfamiliar terms, and offer bibliographies of other sources. Some works include an index, which will provide the best access to a subject. Terms from the life sciences, technology, and public policy deal- ing with conservation and the environment are defined. Examples are often provided. Oxford UP, 1985.
Brief entries define topics in the life, geologic, and atmospheric sciences.
Latest in reference. In addition to evaluating current issues that affect wildlife, this annual gives trends for a number of individual species, such as the desert tortoise. Describes careers in biology in terms of the skills and preparation necessary in each field. Gives short definitions of biological terms as well as capsule biographies of famous researchers in the life sciences. Gives long definitions of terms used in the biological study of animal behavior.