Ontogeny, Functional Ecology, and Evolution of Bats

The study of animal development has deep historical roots in codifying
the field of evolutionary biology. In the 1940s, evolutionary theory became
engulfed by analyses of microevolutionary genetics and the study of devel-
opment became focused on mechanisms, forsaking the evolutionary
implications of ontogeny. Recently, ontogeny has resurfaced as a signifi-
cant component of evolutionary change and also of population and com-
munity dynamics.
Ontogeny, Functional Ecology, and Evolution of Bats is a unique reference
work by bat biologists who emphasize the importance of understanding
ontogeny in analyses of evolution and ecology. In addition, the develop-
mental underpinnings of specialized morphology, physiology, and behav-
ior are elucidated, and the strong influence of ecology on the ontological
niche of juvenile bats is illustrated. This book is an essential reference, not
only for bat biologists, but for anyone working in the fields of ecology,
developmental biology, evolution, behavior and systematics.