The Diversity of Fishes: Biology, Evolution and Ecology

The third edition of The Diversity of Fishes is a major revision of the widely adopted ichthyology textbook, incorporating the latest advances in the biology of fishes, covering taxonomy, anatomy, physiology, biogeography, ecology, and behavior. Key information on the evolution of various fishes is also presented, providing expansive and conclusive coverage on all key topics pertaining to the field.

To aid in reader comprehension, each chapter begins with a summary that provides a broad overview of the content of that chapter, which may be particularly useful for those using the text for a course who don’t intend to address some chapters in detail. Detailed color photographs throughout the book demonstrate just some of the diversity and beauty of fishes that attract many to the field. A companion website provides related videos selected by the authors, instructor resources, and additional references and websites for further reading.

Sample topics covered and learning resources included in The Diversity of Fishes are as follows:

• How molecular genetics has transformed many aspects of ichthyology
• The close relationship between structure and function, including adaptations to special environments
• Many physical and behavioral adaptations reflect the fact that many fishes are both predators and prey
• Fish interactions with other species within fish assemblages and broader communities, plus their impacts on ecosystems
• Global maps that more accurately represent the comparative sizes of oceans and land masses than maps used in prior editions

For students, instructors, and individuals with an interest in ichthyology, The Diversity of Fishes is an all-in-one introductory resource to the field, presenting vast opportunity for learning, many additional resources to aid in information retention, and helpful recommendations on where to go to explore specific topics further.

Part I – Introduction
Chapter 1 – The Science of Ichthyology
Chapter 2 – Systematic Procedures
 
Part II – Form, Function, Ontogeny
Chapter 3 – Structure and Function of the Head
Chapter 4 – Structure and Function of the Trunk
Chapter 5 – Circulation, Gas Transport, Digestion, Metabolism, and Energetics
Chapter 6 – Nervous and Sensory Systems
Chapter 7 – Homeostasis
Chapter 8 – Reproduction and Early Life History
Chapter 9 – Juveniles, Age and, Growth
Chapter 10 – Special Habitats and Adaptations
 
Part III – Taxonomy, Phylogeny, and Evolution
Chapter 11 – “A History of Fishes”
Chapter 12 – Chondrichthyes
Chapter 13 – Living Representatives of Primitive Fishes
Chapter 14 – Teleosts I
Chapter 15 – Teleosts II
 
Part IV – Fish Behavior
Chapter 16 – Fishes as Predators and Prey
Chapter 17 – Fishes as Social Animals
Chapter 18 – Cycles of Activity and Behavior
 
Part V – Fish Distribution, Ecology, and Conservation
Chapter 19 – Zoogeography
Chapter 20 – Fish Populations
Chapter 21 – Communities, Ecosystems, and the Functional Role of Fishes
Chapter 22 – Conservation
Index