An accessible guide to more than 95 of the most important discoveries and theories in the history of biology.

Why do bees know how to dance? Where do plants get sugar? How do animals know their mothers? Who discovered germs?

The science of biology is the story of our quest to understand the living world and explain how its organisms work and interact - whether microbes, mushrooms or mammals. In answering these and many other questions, we've discovered the mechanics of plants, animals and the human body; explored the mysteries of DNA and genetic inheritance; and learned how to develop vaccines that control diseases.

Written in plain English, The Biology Book is packed with short, pithy explanations of more than 95 momentous ideas in science, from cell theory to evolution by natural selection. Themed chapters explore key areas of the life sciences including ecology, zoology and biotechnology, tracing the history of scientific thought and introducing the scientists who shaped the subject, such as Carl Linnaeus, Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, Charles Darwin and Gregor Mendel. Coverage of topical issues such as cloning, neuroscience, human evolution and gene-editing brings the story right up to date. Unpick complex theories, demystify biological processes and enjoy the illuminating quotes that make the ideas and discoveries memorable to enhance our understanding of the science.

Whether you're new to the subject, a budding botanist or molecular scientist, an avid student of the living world, or keen to keep up with and understand current ethical and scientific debates, The Biology Book is for you.