The book describes the diversity and features of various vertebrate groups, ranging from the oldest living fishes to the relatively more recent groups to evolve such as mammals. The authors cover the structures of body systems including organs and tissues, as well as their functions and how they differ in various vertebrate groups. They also discuss the evolution of vertebrate groups from the earliest extinct ancestors to the living vertebrates as well as related groups that are now extinct. The book contains illustrations to clarify various issues and discussions of the features that enable vertebrates to adapt to aquatic and terrestrial environments they inhabit.
Preface
General Introduction to the Study of Vertebrates
Diversity, Distribution and Characteristics of Vertebrates
Organization of the Vertebrate Body
Skeletal System
Muscular System
Integument
Nutrition and Digestion
Respiratory System
Reproduction and Early Developmental Biology
Circulatory System
Nervous System and Endocrine Organs
Sense Organs
Excretion and Osmoregulation
Evolution of Vertebrates
Index
Color Plate Section
Biography
S. M. Kisia