Carnivoran Evolution

This book explores the evolution of the mammalian order Carnivora, highlighting recent research and methodologies that enhance our understanding of this diverse group.

The book Carnivoran Evolution presents a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in our understanding of carnivoran evolution, featuring a cohesive series of innovative studies. These studies employ new methodologies and data, showcasing how the mammalian order Carnivora serves as a vital model group for exploring fundamental biological and palaeontological questions. Members of Carnivora have adapted to various environments, evolving into diverse forms such as bamboo-eating pandas and flesh-eating sabre-toothed cats, highlighting their ecological and morphological diversity.

This volume compiles contributions from leading international scientists, focusing on contemporary insights into carnivoran relationships, ecomorphology, and macroevolutionary patterns. The topics covered range from the palaeoecology of early fossil carnivorans to the effects of competition on diversity and biogeographic distributions. Several chapters delve into ecomorphological convergences between carnivorans and other mammals, utilizing morphometric and Finite Element analyses to enhance our understanding.

In addition, the book discusses how recent molecular and palaeontological data have reshaped our perspective on carnivoran phylogeny. Overall, Carnivoran Evolution illustrates a rich array of approaches and questions within evolutionary biology and palaeontology, creating a vital resource for anyone interested in the evolutionary significance of this diverse clade.