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Platypus
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Format: Paperback / softback
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See moreThe extraordinary story of a biological riddle that confounded scientists for nearly ninety years - the beguiling, elusive platypus.
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
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Description
When the first specimen of a platypus arrived in England in 1799, it was greeted with astonishment and disbelief. What was this strange creature from the new colony of Australia? It defied rational explanation, with its webbed feet and duck's beak attached to what seemed to be a mammal's body—surely it was a hoax on the part of those cheeky new colonials?
As eighteenth-century naturalists struggled to classify the platypus, the little animal excited curiosity and sparked fierce debate in international scientific circles, drawing in leaders of zoology and comparative anatomy in Britain and Europe. This is the enigmatic story of a biological riddle that confounded scientists for nearly ninety years, challenging theories of creationism, evolution, and the classification of species along the way.
Secretive, elusive, and beguiling, the platypus has continued to captivate public and scientific attention to the present day.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Platypus by Ann Moyal offers an intriguing exploration of the unique animal's natural history and cultural impact. Readers appreciate Moyal's engaging narrative style and meticulous research, blending science with storytelling to illuminate the fascinating biology and historical journey of the platypus. The book is praised for making complex scientific concepts accessible to a general audience, while also serving as a comprehensive resource for enthusiasts of the natural world.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781741757798
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 01 June 2010
Country: Australia
Imprint: Allen & Unwin
Edition: 2nd edition
Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education
DIMENSIONS
Width: 128.0mm
Height: 198.0mm
Weight: 310g
Pages: 264
Collections
About the Author
Ann Moyal is a well-known historian of Australian science and has held research and teaching positions at a number of Australian universities. She has written many books and articles and is founder and past-president of the Independent Scholars Association of Australia. She now lives in Canberra.
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