Biology : the unity and diversity of life / Cecie Starr, Ralph Taggart ; Lisa Starr, biology illustrator.

Includes bibliographical references and index

Introduction: Concepts and methods in biology -- pt. 1. Principles of cellular life -- Chemical foundations for cells -- Carbon compounds in cells -- Cell structure and function -- A closer look at cell membranes -- Ground rules of metabolism -- How cells acquire energy -- How cells release stored energy -- pt. 2. Principles of inheritance -- Cell division and mitosis -- Meiosis -- Observable patterns of inheritance -- Human genetics -- DNA structure and function -- From DNA to proteins -- Controls over genes -- Recombinant DNA and genetic engineering -- pt. 3. Principles of evolution -- Microevolution -- Speciation -- The macroevolutionary puzzle -- The origin and evolution of life -- pt. 4. Evolution and biodiversity -- Prokaryotes and viruses -- Protistans -- Plants -- Fungi -- Animals: the invertebrates -- Animals: the vertebrates -- Biodiversity in perspective -- Principles of anatomy and physiology -- How plants and animals work --
pt. 5. Plant structure and function -- Plant tissues -- Plant nutrition and transport -- Plant reproduction -- Plant growth and development -- pt. 6. Animal structure and function -- Animal tissues and organ systems -- Integration and control: nervous systems -- Sensory reception -- Integration and control: endocrine systems -- Protection, support, and movement -- circulation -- Immunity -- Respiration -- Digestion and human nutrition -- The internal environment -- Principles of reproduction and development -- Human reproduction and development -- pt. 7. Ecology and behavior -- Population ecology -- Social interactions -- Community interactions -- Ecosystems -- The biosphere -- Perspective on humans and the biosphere