Evolutionary Pathways in Nature: A Phylogenetic Approach John C. Avise Reconstructing phylogenetic trees form DNA sequences has become a popular exercise in many branches of biology, and here the award-winning geneticist, John Avise, explains why. Molecular phylogenies provides a genealogical backdrop for interpreting the evolutionary histories of many other types of biological traits (anatomical, behavioral, ecological, physiological, biochemical, and even geographical). Guiding readers on a natural history tour along dozens of evolutionary pathways, the author describes how creatures ranging from microbes to elephants came to possess their current phenotypes. If you want to know how the toucan got its bill and the kangaroo its hop, this is the book for you. This book also provides a definitive answer to the proverbial question : "which came first, the chicken or the egg?" This scientifically educational yet entertaining treatment of ecology, genetics, and evolution is intended for college students, professional biologists, and anyone interested in natural history and biodiversity. John C. Avise is a distinguished professor of ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of California, Irvine.