Evolution and Function of Biological Macrostructures

With spectacular large-format images complemented by scientifically grounded, yet easy-to-read, explanatory texts, Georg Glaeser and Werner Nachtigall take you on an exciting journey through the fascinating world of macrostructures – small structures in nature that fulfill specific functions. This book will pique your curiosity about a secret world known only to a few by presenting an impressive range of evolutionary mechanisms, from shrimps’ “tail flips” to the adhesive pads of gecko setae and the implementation of biological structures in the field of bionics. The book can be read in any fashion you please – the cross-references make it easy to jump across the sections, which are largely self-contained and discuss various highlights of the evolutionary process.

Georg Glaeser is a Professor of Mathematics and Geometry at the University of Applied Arts Vienna. He is also a passionate wildlife photographer. Werner Nachtigall was, until his retirement, Director of the Institute of Zoology at Saarland University. He has conducted extensive research e.g. in the field of physiology and biomechanics.