The Diversity of Fishes: Biology, Evolution and Ecology

The third edition of The Diversity of Fishes is a major revision of the widely adopted ichthyology textbook, incorporating the latest advances in the biology of fishes and covering taxonomy, anatomy, physiology, biogeography, ecology, and behavior. Key information on the evolution of various fishes is also presented, providing expansive and conclusive coverage on all key topics pertaining to the field.

To aid in reader comprehension, each chapter begins with a summary that provides a broad overview of the content of that chapter, which may be particularly useful for those using the text for a course who don't intend to address every chapter in detail. Detailed color photographs throughout the book demonstrate just some of the diversity and beauty of fishes that attract many to the field. A companion website provides related videos selected by the authors, instructor resources, and additional references and websites for further reading.

Sample topics covered and learning resources included in The Diversity of Fishes are as follows:

• How molecular genetics has transformed many aspects of ichthyology
• The close relationship between structure and function, including adaptations to special environments
• Many physical and behavioral adaptations reflecting the fact that many fishes are both predators and prey
• Fish interactions with other species within fish assemblages and broader communities, plus their impacts on ecosystems
• Global maps that more accurately represent the comparative sizes of oceans and land masses than maps used in prior editions

For students, instructors, and individuals with an interest in ichthyology, The Diversity of Fishes is an all-in-one introductory resource to the field, presenting vast opportunities for learning, many additional resources to aid in information retention, and helpful recommendations on where to go to explore specific topics further.


About the Author

Douglas E. Facey, Emeritus Professor of Biology, Saint Michael's College, Vermont, USA.

Brian W. Bowen, Research Professor, Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA.

Bruce B. Collette, Research Associate, NOAA, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA.

Gene S. Helfman, Emeritus Professor of Ecology, Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA.