This book presents a comprehensive overview of the science of the history of life. Paleobiologists bring many
analytical tools to bear in interpreting the fossil record and the book introduces the latest techniques, from
multivariate investigations of biogeography and biostratigraphy to engineering analysis of dinosaur skulls, and
from homeobox genes to cladistics.
All the well-known fossil groups are included, including microfossils and invertebrates, but an important feature
is the thorough coverage of plants, vertebrates and trace fossils together with discussion of the origins of both
life and the metazoans. All key related subjects are introduced, such as systematics, ecology, evolution and development,
stratigraphy and their roles in understanding where life came from and how it evolved and diversified.
Unique features of the book are the numerous case studies from current research that lead students to the primary
literature, analytical and mathematical explanations and tools, together with associated problem sets and practical
schedules for instructors and students.