Nearly thirty years after the publication of the last detailed book on the newts and salamanders of Europe, this book at last provides a much needed, modern coverage of the ecology, behaviour, evolution and conservation of these fascinating amphibians. It shows how the diversity of newt and salamander life-styles underlines how this relatively small group of animals has managed to survive in such diverse habitats as underground caves, mountain tops, tropical forests and the Siberian tundra. The species accounts are accompanied by notes and maps on distribution, habitat requirements and behaviour, as well as colour photographs of every species. Features: * Presents the first synthesis of research for nearly 30 years * Reviews current conservation issues * Provides up-to-date species accounts and color photos * Includes a user-friendly guide to the relationships between different species and subspecies

Salamanders of the Old World is a new in-depth reference work covering all the salamander species of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. A marvellous addition for the herp community that comes recommended for researchers, managers, conservationists, students, and salamander enthusiasts. Salamanders of the Old World • features information on biology and life history of salamanders • includes over 150 species of Europe, Asia, and North Africa • richly illustrated • focuses on habitat, behaviour, and reproduction • information on identification, eggs and larvae, and threats and species conservation • distribution maps for all species • an extensive reference list. Published in cooperation between KNNV Publishing and Naturalis Biodiversity Centre (The Netherlands).

Nearly thirty years after the publication of the last detailed book on the newts and salamanders of Europe, this book at last provides a much needed, modern coverage of the ecology, behavior, evolution, and conservation of these fascinating amphibians. The author abandons the popular conception of amphibians as a primitive group poorly adapted to life on land. Indeed, he shows how the diversity of newt and salamanders life-styles underlines how this relatively small group of animals have survived in such diverse habitats as underground caves, mountain tops, tropical forests, and the Siberian tundra. Delightfully illustrated and fully referenced throughout, the book synthesizes much recent research into a lively and readable format that will be of interest to both experienced and inexperienced herpetologists and natural historians. Given recent concern over global amphibian declines, newts and salamanders have been the focus of considerable media attention and scientific work in recent years. This book describes how an understanding of the ecology and habitat requirements of these animals can lead to more effective conservation measures.Key Features: * Presents the first synthesis of research for nearly 30 years * Reviews current conservation issues * Provides up-to-date species accounts and color photos * Includes a user-friendly guide to the relationships between different species and subspecies

"Well written, this is the best English-language guide to the entire western European herpetofauna for the international market."--Tom Langton, Chairman of Froglife Trust, Director of Herpetofauna Consultants International Ltd.

Packed with outstanding photographs, this practical, compact yet comprehensive reference is the definitive guide to all 139 amphibian species found in the Western Palearctic and adjacent regions. From familiar frogs and toads to striking salamanders and newts, the detailed text describes each species' appearance, habitat and behaviour, and includes useful information on their classifications, ecology and life cycles. Grouped by families for ease of use, every account includes an accurate distribution map and colour photographs annotated with crucial details to help swiftly identify species in the field. Written by field biologist Christophe Dufresnes, this is the ultimate photographic guide for amateurs and expert herpetologists alike.

Amphibians of North Africa is a comprehensive compilation of available data on the amphibians and reptiles found in various ecosystems across North West Africa and parts of the Mediterranean region. It is essential to identifying and understanding the ecological role of regional herpetofauna and its conservational importance. It examines the biological origins and diversity of amphibians in North Africa, along with their diverse ecosystems, including deserts, grasslands and subtropical forests. The book features detailed descriptions of the adult and larvae stages of species, such as the North African fire salamander, the common painted frog, Brongersma's toad and the Mediterranean tree frog. This book is a vital resource for herpetology and ecology students and researchers, helping them identify, understand and conserve these amphibians and reptiles in their various habitats across the North African and Mediterranean regions. - Presents the only book on research and species recognition of North West African and Mediterranean amphibians and reptiles in all life phases - Provides novel, iconographic material about little-known species - Features helpful visuals, including ink-drawings, photographs of adult and larvae stages, habitat photographs and distributional maps

Packed with outstanding photographs, this practical, compact yet comprehensive reference is the definitive guide to all 139 amphibian species found in the Western Palearctic and adjacent regions. From familiar frogs and toads to striking salamanders and newts, the detailed text describes each species' appearance, habitat and behaviour, and includes useful information on their classifications, ecology and life cycles. Grouped by families for ease of use, every account includes an accurate distribution map and colour photographs annotated with crucial details to help swiftly identify species in the field. Written by field biologist Christophe Dufresnes, this is the ultimate photographic guide for amateurs and expert herpetologists alike.