Evolution is a new book on evolutionary biology that integrates molecular biology, genomics, and human genetics with traditional studies of evolutionary processes.
* Recommended as a primary textbook for undergraduate courses in evolution
* Required reading for biologists seeking a clear, current, and comprehensive account of evolutionary theory and mechanisms
* Written by experts in population genetics, bacterial genomics, paleontology, human genetics, and developmental biology
* Integrates molecular and evolutionary biology in ways that reflect current directions in research
Contents and Coverage
This extensively illustrated, full-color book has four sections:
Introduction (Part I) gives an account of how the ideas underpinning evolutionary theory developed and a history of experiments and ideas in the development of molecular biology.
Origin and Diversification of Life (Part II) describes the history of life on earth from the origin of life to the evolution of humans, with emphasis on the major transitions in genetic organization and novel adaptations that have appeared. The diversity of life is emphasized. The chapters make extensive use of information from complete genome sequences and analysis of molecular mechanisms in development.
Evolutionary Processes (Part III) describes how the diversity of life is generated: How variation arises and how selection acts are considered in detail. Many examples used to illustrate these processes are drawn from molecular sources.
Human Evolution (Part IV) discusses human evolution and diversity. The benefits of molecular markers for our understanding of human evolution are highlighted and these findings integrated with paleontological evidence. Also discussed is the use of evolutionary methods to identify genetic differences that predispose people to specific diseases and affect their responses to treatment.
Online-only Chapters
Additional chapters, found on the Web only, deal with techniques and models used in studying evolutionary biology, emphasizing the contribution of molecular biology and genomics to phylogenetic reconstruction methods.
Resources for Instructors
The Evolution Web site (www.evolution-textbook.org) is an invaluable supplement to the textbook, a resource for teachers that will contain downloadable figures (for PowerPoint or overhead display) and chapter problems.
Request exam copies and other information
Visit the Evolution Web site now for more information about this new book. Request a detailed Table of Contents, Sample Chapters, Exam Copies, and Updates about Evolution.
Contents
Preface
Aim and Scope of the Book
I AN OVERVIEW OF EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY
1 The History of Evolutionary Biology: Evolution and Genetics
2 The Origin of Molecular Biology
3 Evidence for Evolution
II THE ORIGIN AND DIVERSIFICATION OF LIFE
4 The Origin of Life
5 The Last Universal Common Ancestor and the Tree of Life
6 Diversification of Bacteria and Archaea. I: Phylogeny and Biology
7 Diversification of Bacteria and Archaea. II: Genetics and Genomics
8 The Origin and Diversification of Eukaryotes
9 Multicellularity and Development
10 Diversification of Plants and Animals
11 Evolution of Developmental Programs
III EVOLUTIONARY PROCESSES
12 Generation of Variation by Mutation and Recombination
13 Variation in DNA and Proteins
14 Variation in Genetically Complex Traits
15 Random Genetic Drift
16 Population Structure
17 Selection on Variation
18 The Interaction between Selection and Other Forces
19 Measuring Selection
20 Phenotypic Evolution
21 Conflict and Cooperation
22 Species and Speciation
23 Evolution of Genetic Systems
24 Evolution of Novelty
IV HUMAN EVOLUTION
25 Human Evolutionary History
26 Current Issues in Human Evolution
Glossary
Figure Credits
Index
ONLINE CHAPTERS (www.evolution-textbook.org)
27 Phylogenetic Reconstruction
28 Models of Evolution