Animal Behaviour: An Evolutionary Approach - Hardcover

Alcock, John

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0878930116 ISBN 13: 9780878930111

Publisher: Sinauer Associates Inc.,U.S., 2001

Synopsis

It is distinguished by its balanced treatment of both the underlying mechanisms and evolutionary causes of behaviour, and stresses the utility of evolutionary theory in unifying the different behavioural disciplines. Important concepts are explained by reference to key illustrative studies, which are described in sufficient detail to help students appreciate the role of the scientific process in producing research discoveries. Examples are drawn evenly from studies of invertebrates and vertebrates, and are supported by nearly 1300 reference citations. The writing style is clear: beginning students should have no difficulty following the material, despite the strong conceptual orientation of the text.

About this title

From the Publisher:

Reviews and Contents
Reviews:

'...top-notch and well developed introduction to the field of animal behaviour. Alcock's is a very engaging book.' - Animal Behaviour

'In summary, this is one of the most comprehensive textbooks on the study of behavior. Its readability is exemplary. Concepts and discoveries are presented from an evolutionary perspective and through the logic of hypothesis-testing. Students learn not only about animal behavior, but they are shown how scientists pursue knowledge.' - Quarterly Review of Biology

Contents:

Evolutionary Approach to Animal Behavior

The Proximate Causes of Behavior: Analyzing Communication

Development of Behavior: Role of Genes

Development of Behavior: Role of the Environment

Control of Behavior: Neural Mechanisms

Control of Behavior: Organizing Mechanisms

Evolution of Communication: Historical Pathways

Evolution of Communication: Adaptation in Signalers and Receivers

Adaptive Responses to Predators

Adaptive Feeding Behavior

Choosing Adaptively Where to Live

Male and Female Reproductive Tactics

Evolution of Mating Systems

Adaptive Tactics of Parents

Evolution of Social Behavior

Evolution of Human Behavior

Book Description:

This classic text offering a balanced treatment of the underlying mechanisms and evolutionary bases of behavior has been thoroughly rewritten and updated with recent work in the field

About this edition

• Publisher: Sinauer Associates Inc.,U.S.
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 0878930116
• ISBN 13: 9780878930111
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 550