The Evolution of Avian Breeding Systems

Ligon, J David

ISBN 10: 019854913X / ISBN 13: 9780198549130

Verlag: Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1999

Beschreibung

Book - near fine, dust jacket - very good. Oxford Ornithology Series. Weight exceeds standard 1.0 kg rate - extra postage may be required for some overseas destinations. Bestandsnummer des Verkäufers 006387

Bibliografische Details

Titel: The Evolution of Avian Breeding Systems

Verlag: Oxford University Press, Oxford

Erscheinungsdatum: 1999

Einband: Hardcover

Illustrator: Ramos, Mike

Zustand: Near Fine

Zustand des Schutzumschlags: Very Good

Auflage: 1st Edition

Über diesen Titel

Inhaltsangabe:

The Evolution of Avian Breeding Systems deals with three of the most conspicuous and fascinating aspects of the reproductive biology of birds: sexual selection, parental care, and mating systems. Ever since Darwin, birds have provided much of the stimulus for study of these interrelated topics. Researchers have been fascinated by the extent of sexual dimorphism in plumage colours among avian species, and the puzzling development of flamboyant ornamentation or complex courtship displays in male birds. This book provides empirical assessments of the main theories of mate choice by females, and also includes related topics such as the role of sexual selection in speciation. Although most avian species are socially monogamous, others exhibit polygyny, cooperative and classical polyandry, or lek-promiscuity. The effects of extra pair copulations on paternity, as well as their possible effects on the evolution of mating systems are also considered. Chapters devoted to each of the major mating system summarize current thinking about the factors maintaining them. Throughout the book, theoretical discussion is illustrated with examples, drawn from work on a wide range of avian species. This is the first book to combine the themes of sexual selection, parental care, and mating systems, and to focus exclusively on birds. It will be welcomed by researchers in animal behaviour and ornithology with an interest in mating systems, as well as by graduate and advanced undergraduate students taking courses in this area. It is illustrated throughout with original line drawings.

Über die Autorin bzw. den Autor:

J. David Ligon is Professor of Biology at the University of New Mexico. Department of Biology, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131. E-mail: jdligon@unm.edu. Tel: 1-505-277-3858. Fax: 1-505-277-0304