Arachnids

by Jan Beccaloni

For many people, long-legged spiders, venomous scorpions and blood-sucking ticks are the stuff of nightmares, but to others they are a source of constant fascination. Arachnids dispels common myths and misconceptions to reveal the truth about these weird, wonderful and often beautiful creatures. With the use of examples from around the globe, the book brings together the current knowledge of the world of arachnids. It describes in accessible language their unique biology, adaptable anatomy and often unusual behaviour. Did you know that spiders often show a high level of parental care, with some actually regurgitating food for their babies? Or that a scorpion's sting is not in its tail? Illustrated by many interesting and often bizarre facts, and with over 200 striking photographs and artworks, the book shows that arachnids are not sinister beasts, but fascinating creatures that are highly adapted to their environment.

Genres: Nonfiction, Biology

320 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2009

Reviews

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely the most definitive book on the subject accessible to a wide audience. I adore this book.

[Ajnadenver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic addition to the genre. Very accurate and includes all the prevalent information for each order, with the exception of the acarines, as expected due to their immense size and diversity. The pictures are great and I have to disagree that this doesn't make for a good coffee table book. Most people don't want full size glossy pictures of tailless whip scorpions or ogre faced spiders (unfortunately!), however I've had several people pick up this book, squeal over a picture, then become unwillingly fascinated with the corresponding text and explanation. Arachnids are amazing and fascinating animals and it's wonderful to see the full spectrum represented in a single place, and in such a comprehensive format.

[elliot brady · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was remarkably informative on the various orders of arachnids and their traits. I was able to borrow it from a professor, and it was very enlightening, however, it does require a base understanding or invertebrate zoology in order to receive the full extent of knowledge stored within its pages. I wouldn’t say this is a huge drawback, as I do not believe it’s target audience is the general public, but that is something I noticed while reading it as a freshman college student.

[Lorena · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so excited to read this book. I began working with this amazing group in August of 2010 knowing little more than the average joe. I think they deserve better from their keeper, so here we go....!

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting, if dry. I was hoping for more of a coffee-table style book, but this is very textbook-y. Not that that's a bad thing, just something I was surprised to find. Pictures are amazing... they make your skin crawl for sure!