Vertebrate palaeontology is a lively field, with new discoveries reported every week and not only dinosaurs! This new edition reflects the international scope of vertebrate palaeontology, with a special focus on exciting new finds from China. A key aim is to explain the science. Gone are the days of guesswork.
"A book that has gone through four editions over a period of 25 years is definitely on its way to becoming a classic. Because of its clarity and wealth of information, Mike Benton's textbook, which currently has no equivalent, definitely deserves that enviable destiny." (Palaeovertebrata, 2016)
"The book is a main textbook for vertebrate palaeontology and aimed at students and anyone with an interest in the evolution of vertebrates. It meets its five aims and is excellent value." (Proceedings of the Open University Geological Society, 1 April 2015)
Michael J. Benton FRS is Professor of Vertebrate Palaeontology at the University of Bristol. He is particularly interested in early reptiles, Triassic dinosaurs, and macroevolution, and has published over 50 books and 300 scientific articles. He leads one of the most successful palaeontology research groups at the University of Bristol, and has supervised over 60 PhD students.