Frogs and Toads of the World

Description

With nearly 6,000 species currently identified, frogs and toads are the most familiar and abundant amphibians on the planet. Frogs and Toads of the World is a comprehensive guide to the natural history of this large and diverse group of creatures. Stunningly illustrated throughout with 200 color photographs, this one-of-a-kind book traces the evolution and classification of frogs and toads, providing detailed information about each of the 49 unique families and highlighting distinctive and notable species. It vividly describes their remarkable diversity in shape, color, and markings; anatomy and development; life cycle; habitats; the various methods they use to attract mates and hunt for food; and the physiological and behavioral tricks they use to survive and thrive around the world. This indispensable guide also explores frogs' interaction with humans, from modern-day collection for the meat trade, scientific research, and the trade in exotic pets to how their survival is being threatened by habitat destruction, climate change, and disease. * A comprehensive guide to the natural history of frogs and toads * Features 200 stunning color photographs * Covers each of the 49 unique frog families * Describes anatomy, life cycle, habitats, survival tricks, and more

Chris Mattison is a natural history writer and photographer who specializes in reptiles and amphibians. His many books include "The New Encyclopedia of Snakes" (Princeton). His photography regularly appears in books and magazines throughout the world.

One of Choice's Outstanding Academic Titles for 2011 "This is an overview of one of the most baffling, diverse and astonishing of all animal groups."--Cathy Taibbi, Examiner, National wildlife conservation "Fascinating... [Frogs and Toads of the World] provides a great gateway for anyone interested in learning about these creatures... Mattison's book details what frogs eat and what eats frogs, their reproductive cycle and what kind of parents they are."--Tom Palmer, Lakeland Ledger "Naturalist and author-photographer Mattison has once again produced an excellent book related to his specialization in amphibians and reptiles. This volume is a colorful, entertaining overview of many of the nearly 6,000 species of frogs worldwide... All chapters are superbly illustrated with high-quality color photographs not frequently seen in books on animals."--Choice "[T]his book [is] a wonderful description of all aspects of frogs and toads. It is well written, well organized, well illustrated with color photographs and it is a good read for those interested in this unique group of amphibians. [This] book [is] well worth owning if you have an interest in nature in general and frogs in particular."--REH, Wildlife Activist "All sections of this book are lavishly illustrated with some of the finest color photographs of frogs yet to appear in the literature. This book is easy to read and comprehend, highly informative, accurate, and as up to date as possible in an era dominated by changes due to new molecular insights. This work is highly recommended for purchase by municipal, high school, and college libraries."--Edmund D. Keiser, Jr., American Reference Books Annual "[Frogs and Toads of the World] has a lot to offer the general naturalist and the birder interested in amphibians and learning what else is in that local patch pond."--Donna Schulman, 10,000 Birds "[S]tunningly illustrated throughout ... indispensable guide... A good general introduction on the subject."--Ian, Guardian Birdbooker Report