Phenotypic plasticity is a concept in evolutionary biology that refers to the ability of an organism to change its phenotype in response to environmental changes. This concept has gained significant attention in the last two decades, as it lies at the intersection of physiology, morphology, behavior, and genetics. It contributes to phenotypic variation in wild populations and influences evolutionary rates. However, empirical research has struggled to keep up with theoretical developments in this field, leading to controversies regarding the genetic basis of plasticity, its description, and quantification.
Massimo Pigliucci's "Phenotypic Plasticity: Beyond Nature and Nurture" is a timely contribution to the field. The book builds on an earlier work by Schlichting and Pigliucci, but offers a more accessible and comprehensive overview. It is well-structured, with chapters on genetics, molecular biology, developmental biology, ecology, behavior, evolution, and theoretical biology. Pigliucci emphasizes the need for further research and makes efforts to advance the field by discussing unresolved issues.
The book is well-written, easy to read, and suitable for students at all levels. Despite some poor figure reproductions, it is a valuable resource for anyone interested in evolution. The author recommends the book to all readers interested in phenotypic plasticity, as it is a fascinating and stimulating read that will inspire new insights into this important topic.Phenotypic plasticity is a concept in evolutionary biology that refers to the ability of an organism to change its phenotype in response to environmental changes. This concept has gained significant attention in the last two decades, as it lies at the intersection of physiology, morphology, behavior, and genetics. It contributes to phenotypic variation in wild populations and influences evolutionary rates. However, empirical research has struggled to keep up with theoretical developments in this field, leading to controversies regarding the genetic basis of plasticity, its description, and quantification.
Massimo Pigliucci's "Phenotypic Plasticity: Beyond Nature and Nurture" is a timely contribution to the field. The book builds on an earlier work by Schlichting and Pigliucci, but offers a more accessible and comprehensive overview. It is well-structured, with chapters on genetics, molecular biology, developmental biology, ecology, behavior, evolution, and theoretical biology. Pigliucci emphasizes the need for further research and makes efforts to advance the field by discussing unresolved issues.
The book is well-written, easy to read, and suitable for students at all levels. Despite some poor figure reproductions, it is a valuable resource for anyone interested in evolution. The author recommends the book to all readers interested in phenotypic plasticity, as it is a fascinating and stimulating read that will inspire new insights into this important topic.