Spiders: A Diverse Natural History

Norman Platnick

Bark spiders spin webs ten times stronger than Kevlar. Jumping spiders are capable of learning, recognizing, and remembering colors. Recluse spiders can tolerate six months of extreme drought and have a toxin-laden bite that can necessitate skin grafts. This title explores the huge diversity of spider species and their fascinating traits. An introduction outlining the spider's natural history is followed by 110 illustrated profiles spanning the majority of taxonomic spider families. Photographs of species from each family are shown, along with silhouettes of life-size views. Population distribution maps, tables of essential information, and commentaries revealing notable characteristics is included. The spider family profiles are also organized thematically, and the commentaries in each chapter reflect different aspects of a spider's biology. 256 pages.

Hardback £28.00 £24.99