An Introduction to Behavioural Ecology / Edition 3

by Nicholas B. Davies, John R. Krebs

Overview

The third edition of this successful textbook looks again at the influence of natural selection on behavior - an animal's struggle to survive by exploiting resources, avoiding predators, and maximizing reproductive success. In this edition, new examples are introduced throughout, many illustrated with full color photographs. In addition, important new topics are added including the latest techniques of comparative analysis, the theory and application of DNA fingerprinting techniques, extensive new discussion on brood parasite/host coevolution, the latest ideas on sexual selection in relation to disease resistance, and a new section on the intentionality of communication. Written in the lucid style for which these two authors are renowned, the text is enhanced by boxed sections illustrating important concepts and new marginal notes that guide the reader through the text. This book will be essential reading for students taking courses in behavioral ecology.

• The leading introductory text from the two most prominent workers in the field.
  
• Second colour in the text.
  
• New section of four colour plates.
  
• Boxed sections to ilustrate difficult and important points.
  
• New larger format with marginal notes to guide the reader through the text.
  
• Selected further reading at the end of each chapter.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780632035465
Publisher:	Wiley
Publication date:	01/02/2008
Edition description:	REV
Pages:	432
Product dimensions:	6.80(w) x 9.70(h) x 0.92(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

Table of Contents

Introduction.

Natural Selection, Ecology And Behaviour.

Testing Hypotheses In Behavioural Ecology.

Economic Decisions And The Individual.

Predator Versus Prey: Evolutionary Arms Races.

Competing For Resources.

Living In Groups.

Fighting And Assessment.

Sexual Conflict And Sexual Selection.

Parental Care And Mating Systems.

Alternative Breeding Strategies.

On Selfishness And Altruism.

Co-Operation And Helping In Birds, Mammals, And Fish.

Co-Operation And Altruism In The Social Insects.

The Design Of Signals: Ecology And Evolution.

Conclusion

Editorial Reviews

A textbook for a university-level course in behavioral ecology, first published in 1981 and most recently revised in 1987. Explores the influence of natural selection on an animals's struggle to survive by exploiting resources, avoiding predators, and maximizing reproductive success. The new edition includes more illustrations, many of them color photographs, and discusses recent developments in theory, methodology, and observations. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Booknews