Functional approach to morphology--treatment is unique as to organization, thoroughness, and extent of biomechanical analysis. * Profusely illustrated with high quality original artwork. * Comment boxes evaluate points of controversy and note inadequately understood phenomena.

InhaltsangabeINTRODUCTION. The Nature Of Vertebrates Morphology. SURVEY OF VERTEBRATE ANIMALS: THE PRINCIPAL STRUCTURAL PATTERNS. Nature, Origins, and Classification of Vertebrates. Fishes. Tetrapods. THE PHYLOGENY AND ONTOGENY OF STRUCTURE: EVOLUTION IN RELATION TO TIME AND MAJOR TAXA. Early Development. Integument and Its Derivatives. Teeth. Head Skeleton. Body Skeleton. Muscles and Electric Organs. Coelom and Mesenteries. Digestive System. Respiratory System and Gas Bladder. Circulatory System. Excretory System and Osmoregulation. Reproductive System and Urogenital Ducts. Nervous System: General, Spinal Cord, and Perpheral Nerves. Nervous System: Brain. Sense Organs. Endocrine Glands. STRUCTURAL ADAPTATION: EVOLUTION IN RELATION TO HABIT AND HABITAT. Structural Elements of the Body. Mechanics of Support and Movement. Form, Function, and Body Size. Running and Jumping. Digging, and Crawling without Appendages. Climbing. Swimming and Diving. Flying and Gliding. Energetics and Locomotion. Feeding. Appendix: Anatomical Preparations. Glossary. Index.