The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Zoology

This dictionary of zoology contains nearly 6000 entries, and should appeal to students, amateur naturalists, and all non-specialist readers with an interest in the subject. The bulk of entries have been taken from the “Oxford Dictionary of Natural History”, some of them amended or rewritten. A number of new entries have been added, reflecting the increased emphasis on ecology in the study of animals. In addition to ecology, the subjects covered include evolutionary concepts, animal behaviour, Earth history, cell structure and function, physiology, zoogeography, taxonomic principles, and genetics. There are also brief biographical notes on some of the most important figures in the development of the relevant disciplines. The taxa covered include invertebrates, with particular emphasis on arthropods, fish reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals. The dictionary is aimed at students from the 6th form upwards following courses on zoology, biology, biochemistry, biogeography, earth sciences, ecology, entomology, and veterinary science; and at naturalists, birdwatchers, and environmentalists.