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Animals That Walk on Water (First Books - Animals)
Animals That Walk on Water - First Books - Animals Author:Patricia A. Fink Martin Describes how such creatures as the basilisk, Western grebe, and water strider manage to travel across the water's surface. — From School Library Journal Grade 5-8. Six kinds of aquatic animals and their unique physical adaptations are examined in this lucid introduction. The book begins by briefly explaining the physical properties of water?... more »e.g., the existence of "drag force" and "surface film." Each succeeding chapter focuses on a particular kind of creature, describing its physical and behavioral characteristics and detailing how special anatomical features allow it to move over the water's surface. Two of the most intriguing animals discussed are the basilisk lizard, which can sprint across water upright on its hind legs, and the rove beetle, which emits an oily substance that allows it to skim across a pond without using its legs. In addition, the text describes how to conduct simple experiments that demonstrate the properties of water as well as the water-repelling function of certain hairs and fibers. Clear, full-color photos and a few drawings are also included. While most of these animals are mentioned in general introductions such as Steve Parker's Pond and River (1988), Colin McCarthy's Reptile (1991), and Alexandra Parsons's Amazing Spiders (1990, all Knopf), these books do not provide as much detailed information on physical characteristics as the Martin title. This concisely written, well-organized book provides a fascinating glimpse at some truly remarkable creatures.« less