Great Adaptations

Some animals rely on senses, weapons and tactics that sound almost impossible. The star-nosed mole uses a fleshy, star-shaped snout packed with touch receptors, while electric eels can stun their prey with a jolt. Vanderbilt neuroscientist Kenneth Catania investigates these puzzles in this popular science book.

The book reads partly like a detective story, recounting Catania's field investigations into why these features exist. He examines what the mole's nose reveals about how the brain processes information, how tentacled snakes use a deceptive method to draw fish into their mouths, and why emerald jewel wasps turn cockroaches into zombie-like hosts. He also works alongside professional worm grunters to understand the old practice of coaxing earthworms up out of the ground.

Beyond individual species, Catania argues for approaching research with an open mind, looks at the contributions of volunteer citizen scientists, and makes the case that most animals have hidden talents. Throughout, he shows how studying these creatures can illuminate the course of evolution, and how scientific work can be adventurous and enjoyable.