Great Adaptations

Name: Great Adaptations
Brand: Hachette Aotearoa New Zealand
SKU: 9780691218915
Price: 34.99 NZD
Availability: InStock

Star-Nosed Moles, Electric Eels, and Other Tales of Evolution's Mysteries Solved

By Kenneth Catania

Series: Princeton ANZ Paperbacks

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Summary

Great Adaptations by Kenneth Catania explores the extraordinary abilities of nature's most remarkable creatures. Through engaging biological detective work, Catania reveals how animals like star-nosed moles, tentacled snakes, electric eels, and jewel wasps use unique adaptations to survive. The book combines scientific insight with compelling adventure, illustrating how these adaptations shed light on evolution and brain function. From understanding how zombie-making wasps control their prey to uncovering the secrets behind worm grunting, this work celebrates the wonder and complexity of the natural world.
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Format: Paperback / softback

$34⁹⁹

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Great Adaptations

$34⁹⁹

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book is ideal for readers fascinated by science, nature, and animal behaviour. It suits those interested in evolutionary biology and anyone who enjoys stories of scientific discovery and exploration.

In Great Adaptations,

Description

Science News, Favourite Books of 2020

In Great Adaptations, Kenneth Catania presents an entertaining and engaging look at some of nature's most remarkable creatures. Telling the story of his biological detective work, Catania sheds light on the mysteries behind the behaviours of tentacled snakes, tiny shrews, zombie-making wasps, and more. He shows not only how studying these animals can provide deep insights into how life evolved, but also how scientific discovery can be filled with adventure and fun. Beginning with the star-nosed mole, Catania reveals what the creature's nasal star is actually for, and what this tells us about how brains work.

He explores how the deceptive hunting strategy of tentacled snakes leads prey straight to their mouths, how eels use electricity to control other animals, and why emerald jewel wasps make zombies out of cockroaches. He also solves the enigma of worm grunting—a traditional technique in which earthworms are enticed out of the ground—by teaming up with professional worm grunters.

Catania demonstrates the merits of approaching science with an open mind, considers the role played by citizen scientists, and illustrates that most animals have incredible, hidden abilities that defy our imagination. Examining some strange and spectacular creatures, Great Adaptations offers a wondrous journey into nature's grand designs.