Insectopedia – The secret world of southern African insects

Book excerpt: Insectopedia uncovers the fascinating and infinitely varied world of insects. It explores their intriguing behaviour and biology – from mating and breeding, metamorphosis and movement to sight, smell, hearing and their adaptations to heat and cold. A chapter on superorganisms probes the curious phenomenon of social communities among insects; another covers the critical role that these creatures play in maintaining the fragile balance of life on our planet. The book concludes with a 60-page illustrated field guide, describing most insect orders and their main families. Previously published as Insectlopedia of Southern Africa, this fully revised and redesigned edition includes up-to-date information throughout, an expanded ID section, and several hundred new photographs. Sales points: more than 700 photographs, many depicting seldom photographed insect behaviours, clear, easy to read text, and a range of feature and fact boxes that add a lively touch, includes an ID section with photographs and line illustrations, the author is well known for his radio talks on insects.