Molecular Paleobiology of the Echinoderm Skeleton
Molecular Paleobiology of the Echinoderm Skeleton

Author: Jeffrey R. Thompson

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 2022-12-01

Total Pages: 120

ISBN-13: 1009189190

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The echinoderms are an ideal group to understand evolution from a holistic, interdisciplinary framework. The genetic regulatory networks underpinning development in echinoderms are some of the best known for any model group. Additionally, the echinoderms have an excellent fossil record, elucidating in in detail the evolutionary changes underpinning morphological evolution. In this Element, the echinoderms are discussed as a model group for molecular palaeobiological studies, integrating what is known of their development, genomes, and fossil record. Together, these insights shed light on the molecular and morphological evolution underpinning the vast biodiversity of echinoderms, and the animal kingdom more generally.

A Review and Evaluation of Homology Hypotheses in Echinoderm Paleobiology
A Review and Evaluation of Homology Hypotheses in Echinoderm Paleobiology

Author: Colin D. Sumrall

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 2023-04-13

Total Pages: 91

ISBN-13: 1009397168

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The extraxial-axial theory (EAT) and universal elemental homology (UEH) are often portrayed as mutually exclusive hypotheses of homology within pentaradiate Echinodermata. EAT describes homology upon the echinoderm bauplan, interpreted through early post-metamorphic growth and growth zones, dividing it into axial regions generally associated with elements of the ambulacral system and extraxial regions that are not. UEH describes the detailed construction of the axial skeleton, dividing it into homologous plates and plate series based on symmetry, early growth, and function. These hypotheses are not in conflict; the latter is rooted in refinement of the former. Some interpretive differences arise because many of the morphologies described from eleutherozoan development are difficult to reconcile with Paleozoic forms. Conversely, many elements described for Paleozoic taxa by UEH, such as the peristomial border plates, are absent in eleutherozoans. This Element recommends these two hypotheses be used together to generate a better understanding of homology across Echinodermata.

A Review of Blastozoan Echinoderm Respiratory Structures
A Review of Blastozoan Echinoderm Respiratory Structures

Author: Sarah L. Sheffield

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 2022-12-31

Total Pages: 156

ISBN-13: 1108899609

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Echinoderms have evolved diverse and disparate morphologies throughout the Phanerozoic. Among them, blastozoans, an extinct group of echinoderms that were an important component of Paleozoic marine ecosystems, are primarily subdivided into groups based on the morphology of respiratory structures. However, systematic and phylogenetic research from the past few decades have shown that respiratory structures in blastozoans are not group-defining and they have re-evolved throughout echinoderm evolution. This Element provides a review of the research involving blastozoan respiratory structures, along with research concerning the morphology, paleoecology, and ontogeny of each of the major groupings of blastozoans as it relates to their corresponding respiratory structures. Areas of future research in these groups are also highlighted.

The Ecology of Biotic Interactions in Echinoids
The Ecology of Biotic Interactions in Echinoids

Author: Elizabeth Petsios

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 2023-10-31

Total Pages: 88

ISBN-13: 1108899846

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This Element reviews the ecologies of skeletal trace-producing interactions on echinoids in Modern ecosystems and the recognition of those biogenic traces in the fossil record. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.

Introduction to Paleobiology and the Fossil Record
Introduction to Paleobiology and the Fossil Record

Author: Michael J. Benton

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons

Published: 2020-04-14

Total Pages: 660

ISBN-13: 1119272866

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This book presents a comprehensive overview of the science of the history of life. Paleobiologists bring many analytical tools to bear in interpreting the fossil record and the book introduces the latest techniques, from multivariate investigations of biogeography and biostratigraphy to engineering analysis of dinosaur skulls, and from homeobox genes to cladistics. All the well-known fossil groups are included, including microfossils and invertebrates, but an important feature is the thorough coverage of plants, vertebrates and trace fossils together with discussion of the origins of both life and the metazoans. All key related subjects are introduced, such as systematics, ecology, evolution and development, stratigraphy and their roles in understanding where life came from and how it evolved and diversified. Unique features of the book are the numerous case studies from current research that lead students to the primary literature, analytical and mathematical explanations and tools, together with associated problem sets and practical schedules for instructors and students. New to this edition The text and figures have been updated throughout to reflect current opinion on all aspects New case studies illustrate the chapters, drawn from a broad distribution internationally Chapters on Macroevolution, Form and Function, Mass extinctions, Origin of Life, and Origin of Metazoans have been entirely rewritten to reflect substantial advances in these topics There is a new focus on careers in paleobiology

Evolution of Lightweight Structures
Evolution of Lightweight Structures

Author: Christian Hamm

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2015-06-30

Total Pages: 215

ISBN-13: 9401793980

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This volume contains studies on the evolution and function of lightweight constructions of planktonic and other organisms, and examples of how they can be used to create new solutions for radical innovations of lightweight constructions for technological application. The principles and underlying processes responsible for evolution and biodiversity of marine plankton organisms are highly relevant and largely unresolved issues in the field of marine science. Amongst the most promising objects for the study of evolution of stable lightweight constructions are marine organisms such as diatoms or radiolarians. Research in these fields requires interdisciplinary expertises such as in evolutionary modelling, paleontology, lightweight optimization, functional morphology, and marine ecology. Considerable effort and expert knowledge in production engineering or lightweight optimization is necessary to transfer knowledge on biogenic structures and evolutionary principles into new lightweight solutions. This book show methods and examples of how this can be achieved efficiently.

The Origin of Animal Body Plans
The Origin of Animal Body Plans

Author: Wallace Arthur

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 1997

Total Pages: 364

ISBN-13: 9780521779289

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This book examines both the origin of body plans in particular and the evolution of animal development in general.

Echinoderms Through Time
Echinoderms Through Time

Author: Bruno David

Publisher: CRC Press

Published: 1994-06-01

Total Pages: 970

ISBN-13: 9789054105145

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Echinoderms are now considered as a biological and geological model that underlies researches of primary importance. The extent of the contributions made by the International Echinoderm Conferences to various fields of research is attested by the scope covered by presentation at the international conferences. These proceedings contain the complete papers or abstracts of all the presentations and posters presented at the eighth International Echinoderm Conference, held in Dijon, France in September, 1994. Coverage includes: general; extinct classes; crinoids; asteroids; ophiuroids; holothuroids; and echinoids.