Evolution at the California Academy of Sciences

by David Mindell, Greg Farrington (Introduction), Andrew Ng

Drawing from the 26 million research specimens housed at the California Academy of Sciences, this small-format book uses striking photography to showcase some of nature's most innovative and fascinating survival strategies. A butterfly, brilliantly-colored when airborne, seems to transform into a dead leaf when it lands. Tortoises on the Galápagos Islands, having lacked predators for millions of years, grow to gigantic proportions. Interspersed throughout the book are insights from Academy scientists on food, flight, reproduction, toxins, camouflage, adaptation, the evolution of humans, and more. Featuring a compelling introduction by Executive Director Greg Farrington, as well as an essay by David Mindell, Dean of Science and Research Collections, on the impact of the study of evolution on modern technology, medicine, and more. Principal photography by Kevin Twomey.

Paperback

Published January 1, 2009