The Rise of Mammals in Africa

A beautifully illustrated account of the evolutionary journey of mammals in Africa. For more than 80 million years, “Island Africa” was a vast, isolated landmass south of the ancient Tethys Sea. Despite this isolation, waves of pioneering mammals crossed the sea, sparking remarkable evolutionary success stories that include the ancestors of elephants, primates, aardvarks, and more. Follow the extraordinary evolutionary journey of African mammals in this definitive account of how Africa’s unique isolation shaped the development of some of Earth’s most iconic species. Emmanuel Gheerbrant, a world-renowned expert in mammal evolution, weaves together paleontological discoveries and cutting-edge molecular research to illuminate this fascinating history. Through a comprehensive exploration of fossil evidence and stunning original artwork, this book reveals the origins and adaptations of extraordinary creatures, from the extinct Arsinoitherium and Moeritherium to today’s elephants and lemurs. Gheerbrant explores the environmental and climatic forces that shaped these mammals, the impact of Africa’s collision with Eurasia, and the enduring legacy of its evolutionary innovations on today’s global biodiversity. Meticulously researched and beautifully illustrated, The Rise of Mammals in Africa provides an unparalleled window into a critical chapter of natural history. Whether you’re a paleontologist, evolutionary biologist, or a curious reader captivated by Africa’s natural wonders, this book is a gorgeously illustrated resource for understanding the origins of life as we know it.