Synopsis
How has Earth-and Life on it-Changed?
Why Do Plants and Animals Adapt to Live in Extreme Conditions?
What is "Ballooning"?
Life on Earth is constantly changing. It has been doing so for as long as we know and far before humans were here. Through the use of detailed case studies and scientific theories, Timeline: Life on Earth discusses how changes are studied, what the evidence reveals, and how such changes have had-and continue to have-an impact on Earth.
The Distribution of Species explains why and how things live where they do-from scalding hydrothermal vents to the coldest glaciers. See how "ballooning," exploding, and rafting help species spread from place to place. Understand why rain forests play host to some of the most beautifully ornate dancing birds, and discover how Earth contained just one huge landmass.