Time and classification -- Evolution of the mammal-like reptiles -- Evolution of mammalian biology -- Mesozoic mammals -- Living and fossil marsupials -- Living and fossil placentals
Summary
Mammals are the dominant large animals of today, occurring in virtually every environment. This book is an account of the remarkable 320 million year long fossil record that documents their origin, their long spell as no more than small, nocturnal creatures, and their explosive radiation since the extinction of the dinosaurs 65 million years ago. Tom Kemp also unveils the exciting molecular evidence, which, coupled with important new fossils, is presently challenging current. thinking on the interrelationships and historical biogeography of mammals. The Origin and Evolution of Mammals will be
Bibliography
Includes bibliographical references (pages 291-323) and index
