The how and why wonder book of fish
Geoffrey Coe
Hardcover
(Wonder Books, March 15, 1963)
From the Introduction of this 48 page book: "Most scientists believe that the origin of life was in the sea. The primeval forms of plant and animal life developed through countless ages in this watery home. Some forms became adapted to life on land and others remained bound to life in the sea. [This book] tells the story of the gradual development of life in the sea and the changes that led to eventual development of the fish families. Fish have the same life functions as other animals. Though they move, eat, breathe and reproduce in ways that are peculiar to fish, countless variations among different kinds of fish enable them to live successfully in the sea. Some fish, for example, generate electric shocks to protect themselves. Others carry built-in head lights to penetrate the dark waters far below the surface. The eel and salmon have elaborate migration patterns related to their life cycles. Indeed, the fantastic variations in structures and habits of fish must almost be seen to be believed. This book will help young readers understand, as well as believe, the basic facts about various classes of fish and their fascinating patterns of life in the sea. It is a useful reference book for home and school use when boys and girls study this very important group of animals." Found throughout are detailed illustrations along with descriptive text.