Animal Behavior Desk Reference | ALN

Animal Behavior Desk Reference: A Dictionary of Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Evolution, Third Edition was written by Edward M. Barrows and published by the CRC Press of the Taylor and Francis Group in 2011. The original book was published in 1984 as a glossary for research and education purposes and has continued to expand as researchers and scientists strive to better communicate effectively. Scientific terminology has been born of varied origins, which can lend itself to confusion even within the same discipline. Globalization and advancements in knowledge have made exact terminology and defining concepts even more important for sharing information, research, and teaching.

This reference book concentrates on conceptual terms rather than taxonomy or anatomic definitions. Where appropriate, the defining author and date of publication is cited or the reference is quoted so that dictionary users have additional resources if needed. Many authors have ?coined? phrases or terms which may have unclear definitive definitions, or may even use common names or nonscientific terminology, which could be confusing to a foreign speaking scientist or collaborator.

?The vast majority of the reference are the alphabetical dictionary listings which are straightforward and easy to use. However the author uses ?term hierarchies? to organize or explain relationships among terms, so that in some circumstances the reader must cross reference the original word or phrase in order to locate the term and definition. Once the reader is accustomed to referencing material in this hierarchal manner, the organization is less confusing and more user-friendly.

The appendices include: classification of organisms in a taxonomic manner; outlines of societies and organizations concerned with animal behavior, welfare, conservation and related topics; and computer databases of relevant biological or conservation websites. The references cited within the dictionary then conclude the text.

The Animal Behavior Desk Reference: A Dictionary of Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Evolution, Third Edition is useful in clarifying and defining terminology and concepts which may have varying definitions as science has evolved. In the Introduction, the author explains how confusion and debate over the meaning of many concepts and terms has arisen and will continue unless authors make a concerted effort to define concepts carefully and coin terms wisely. Communication is key to the advancement of knowledge and collaboration of information.

This reference is a tremendous undertaking in thoroughly researching the terminology and citing references for additional clarification of concepts and phrases.

Sandra L. Jex is a veterinarian and consultant.

Source: http://www.alnmag.com/article/animal-behavior-desk-reference

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