Butterflies Of The World
Libraries that do not already own this lovely, accessible, and informative description of butterflies (and some moths) and their evolution, anatomy, physiology, and ecology will want to seriously consider this edition. Translated from the Italian, it is by two eminent zoologists who study the population biology of butterflies throughout the world. Aimed at the lay reader and butterfly enthusiast, but suitable for the serious student, the information has been synthesized and presented in logical groupings with beautifully rendered illustrations. The use of maps, charts, and plant and animal illustrations to support the presentation of butterflies in nature adds to the teaching qualities of this book. For example, seeing thePhoebus parnassianon a stonecrop at a mountain tree line is a pleasure that is vicariously available to readers of this book, wherever they may be.Treatment is organized into chapters that cover subjects such as behavior and distribution. The several font sizes used for the text are small, but the depth, breadth, and amount of information dictate that in a book this size. The butterflies selected to represent the families, habitats, geographical distribution, and behaviors are frequently presented near life-size and in relation to other species. The narrative combines good science with good science writing. The bibliography includes the classic field guides and other books on the butterflies of the world. The table of contents and the index provide access to specific information, but this is also a book to browse, sample, and enjoy for its beauty, careful layout, and wealth of information.There are very few reference books that deal with insects and fewer still that are devoted to butterflies. Recommended for academic libraries and for public libraries needing more than what can be found in field guides or general encyclopedias.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.