Mark Ridleya s Evolution has become the premier undergraduate text in the study of evolution. Readable and stimulating, yet well--balanced and in--depth, this text tells the story of evolution, from the history of the study to the most revent developments in evolutionary theory. The third edition of this successful textbook features updates and extensive new coverage. The sections on adaptation and diversity have been reorganized for improved clarity and flow, and a completely updated section on the evolution of sex and the inclusion of more plant examples have all helped to shape this new edition. Evolution also features strong, balanced coverage of population genetics, and scores of new applied plant and animal examples make this edition even more accessible and engaging. * Dedicated website -- provides an interactive experience of the book, with illustrations downloadable to PowerPoint, and a full supplemental package complementing the book -- www.blackwellpublishing.com/ridley. * Margin icons -- indicate where there is relevant information included in the dedicated website. * Two new chapters -- one on evolutionary genomics and one on evolution and development bring state--of--the--art information to the coverage of evolutionary study. * Two kinds of boxes -- one featuring practical applications and the other related information, supply added depth without interrupting the flow of the text. * Margin comments -- paraphrase and highlight key concepts. * Study and review questions -- help students review their understanding at the end of each chapter, while new challenge questions prompt students to synthesize the chapter concepts to reinforce the learning at a deeper level.