Lizards in an Evolutionary Tree: Ecology and Adaptive Radiation of Anoles.

Lizards in an Evolutionary Tree: Ecology and Adaptive Radiation of Anoles.

60(8) : 653-654 | Vitt, Laurie J.
The article reviews two books: "Lizards in an Evolutionary Tree: Ecology and Adaptive Radiation of Anoles" by Jonathan B. Losos and "Glimpses of Creatures in Their Physical Worlds" by Steven Vogel. **Lizards in an Evolutionary Tree** is praised for its engaging narrative, rich content, and clear explanations of complex biological concepts. The book uses anoles, a group of about 365 species, as model organisms to explore evolutionary and ecological principles. Losos highlights the high evolutionary diversity, repeated radiations, and ecological adaptations of anoles, particularly their ability to respond to predators and environmental changes. The book also discusses the challenges of measuring evolutionary change in lizards and provides detailed examples of how interspecific interactions, primarily competition, shape community structure. The review notes the book's appeal to students and researchers interested in biodiversity, evolutionary biology, and ecology. **Glimpses of Creatures in Their Physical Worlds** is a collection of essays that explore the physical principles underlying the behavior of animals and plants. Vogel, known for his expertise in biomechanics, applies principles from physics, engineering, and chemistry to understand how organisms solve everyday physical problems. The book covers topics such as fluid dynamics, structural behavior, and the solutions of living organisms to environmental challenges. The review praises Vogel's ability to explain complex concepts in an accessible and engaging manner, making the book a valuable resource for those interested in the intersection of biology and physics.The article reviews two books: "Lizards in an Evolutionary Tree: Ecology and Adaptive Radiation of Anoles" by Jonathan B. Losos and "Glimpses of Creatures in Their Physical Worlds" by Steven Vogel. **Lizards in an Evolutionary Tree** is praised for its engaging narrative, rich content, and clear explanations of complex biological concepts. The book uses anoles, a group of about 365 species, as model organisms to explore evolutionary and ecological principles. Losos highlights the high evolutionary diversity, repeated radiations, and ecological adaptations of anoles, particularly their ability to respond to predators and environmental changes. The book also discusses the challenges of measuring evolutionary change in lizards and provides detailed examples of how interspecific interactions, primarily competition, shape community structure. The review notes the book's appeal to students and researchers interested in biodiversity, evolutionary biology, and ecology. **Glimpses of Creatures in Their Physical Worlds** is a collection of essays that explore the physical principles underlying the behavior of animals and plants. Vogel, known for his expertise in biomechanics, applies principles from physics, engineering, and chemistry to understand how organisms solve everyday physical problems. The book covers topics such as fluid dynamics, structural behavior, and the solutions of living organisms to environmental challenges. The review praises Vogel's ability to explain complex concepts in an accessible and engaging manner, making the book a valuable resource for those interested in the intersection of biology and physics.
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