The Atlas Of Life On Earth

A comprehensive atlas that covers all aspects of the history of life on Earth, from its formation to the present time.

The Atlas of Life on Earth offers a comprehensive, chronological survey of the Earth, its landscape and its life forms, from the beginning of the solar system 4.5 billion years ago to the present.The atlas is accessibly organized in six major parts, with 18 chapters devoted to each of the major geological periods, in which the crucial geological and biological developments in the history of our planet are described in lucid and intriguing detail. A concluding section looks at the ways in which the Earth and its biosphere continue to evolve today. Each chapter begins with a timeline of the geological period in question and a vivid and arresting map presenting a ‘snapshot from space' of the world as it was then. These maps, together with detailed artworks (including lavish reconstructions of prehistoric landscapes), stunning photographs, and explanatory diagrams, take the reader on a fascinating, informative, and awe-inspiring journey through time. Specially devised feature spreads illustrating graphically and elegantly the evolution and relationships of each major group of plants and animals provide the reader with an incomparable reference source. Each section of the atlas has been written by an acknowledged expert in the relevant field, ensuring clear, informed coverage of the exciting and extraordinary story of the evolution of our planet. Part 1: In the Beginning Part 2: The Early Paleozoic Part 3: The Late Paleozoic Part 4: The Mesozoic Part 5: The Tertiary Part 6: The Quaternary

A dazzling and stunningly illustrated introduction to the diversity of life on our planet.

With a wide variety of attractive illustrations (photographs, charts, drawings, maps) and a simple but interesting text, the Atlas charts the physical forces that have shaped the earth and the biological processes that have determined its life-forms. Surveys habitats (desert, tundra, savanna, etc.) and within habitats the niches that sustain plants and animals (and humans). For general readers. 10x121/4". Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Planet Earth is brought to life in stunning, specially commissioned 3-D maps and artworks that showcase fascinating themes, including geographical features, cities and landmarks, wildlife, and population in unprecedented detail. You'll scale the peaks of the Himalayas, trek the jungles of South America, roam the grasslands of Africa, and swim the Pacific Ocean on your incredible adventure. Visit the hottest place on Earth, spot the largest butterfly, rub shoulders with the world's biggest population, cross the busiest international border, and much, much more on your travels.