An introduction to the characteristics of the major groups of invertebrates and vertebrates.

Invertebrates do not have backbones or internal skeletons, but some have hard coverings. Invertebrates are weird and wonderful creatures that come in every shape and color imaginable! Children will love the exciting photos!

Peter Loewer pairs his fascinating knowledge of backboneless animals with the vivid illustrations of Jean Jenkins in this introduction to the characteristics of invertebrates, amoebas, and other one-celled animals. Ever wonder what sets invertebrates apart from other animals? Aside from their lack of backbone, of course. Peter Loewer takes readers through the ins-and-outs of invertebrate animals in this bright and detailed picture book. With special attention to the physical characteristics, habits, and natural environments of a variety of animals lacking a backbone, The Inside-Out Stomach is the perfect introduction not only to invertebrates, but also amoebas and other one-celled animals.

An introduction to the characteristics of the major groups of invertebrates and vertebrates.

So much has to be crammed into today's biology courses that basic information on animal groups and their evolutionary origins is often left out. This is particularly true for the invertebrates. The second edition of Janet Moore's An Introduction to the Invertebrates fills this gap by providing a short updated guide to the invertebrate phyla, looking at their diverse forms, functions and evolutionary relationships. This book first introduces evolution and modern methods of tracing it, then considers the distinctive body plan of each invertebrate phylum showing what has evolved, how the animals live, and how they develop. Boxes introduce physiological mechanisms and development. The final chapter explains uses of molecular evidence and presents an up-to-date view of evolutionary history, giving a more certain definition of the relationships between invertebrates. This user-friendly and well-illustrated introduction will be invaluable for all those studying invertebrates.