Turtles of the World

Fülszöveg

This is the first modern reference book on turtles summarizing the classification of all 257 turtle species. The authors provide clear descriptions and keys for turtle identification written in a form useful to both scientists and generál readers. The data is presented in a logical and systematic order. The introductory chapter includes a description and illustrations of turtle anatomy, a discussion of turtle origins, and keys to the various families of turtles; following chapters treat each family separately with keys to genera and species. Descriptions of genera include karyotype information, if known. Species accounts include sections of recognition of the turtle and its distribution (where necessary, the information includes geographic variation). Sections on habitat discuss the available ecological information, and sections on natural history analyze feeding habits and reproductive issues. The decline of turtle populations throughout the world receives considerable attention in... Tovább

Fülszöveg

This is the first modern reference book on turtles summarizing the classification of all 257 turtle species. The authors provide clear descriptions and keys for turtle identification written in a form useful to both scientists and generál readers. The data is presented in a logical and systematic order. The introductory chapter includes a description and illustrations of turtle anatomy, a discussion of turtle origins, and keys to the various families of turtles; following chapters treat each family separately with keys to genera and species. Descriptions of genera include karyotype information, if known. Species accounts include sections of recognition of the turtle and its distribution (where necessary, the information includes geographic variation). Sections on habitat discuss the available ecological information, and sections on natural history analyze feeding habits and reproductive issues. The decline of turtle populations throughout the world receives considerable attention in this book. Overcollecting (partially a consequence of the pet trade), killing for food, environmental poisoning through insecticides and herbicides, and habitat destruction have all contributed to this decline. The authors pinpoint areas where further research is necessary and offer suggestions for immediate action. Turtles of the World is an essential volume for herpetologists and wildlife biologists concerned with turtle conservation. Vissza