This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the major vertebrate groups - mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians that inhabit aquatic ecosystems. It explores their anatomy, physiology, ecological roles, adaptations, and significance in relation to fisheries and conservation. Designed for students and professionals in fisheries science, aquatic biology, and wildlife management, the book offers clear explanations, illustrative content, and up-to-date information to support academic learning and research in aquatic vertebrate biodiversity.
Dr. M. Kishore Kumar is presently serving as a Guest Faculty at the College of Fishery Science, Narasapuram, affiliated with Andhra Pradesh Fisheries University, India. His academic and research expertise lies in the f ield of Fisheries Resource Management, with a particular emphasis on the taxonomy, biodiversity, biology, conservation, and management of finfishes. Dr. Kumar has gained substantial practical experience in the field identification of fishes, enhancing both his teaching and research capabilities. He has made notable contributions to scientific literature, having published 10 research articles, 12 popular articles, and 3 book chapters in peer-reviewed, Scopus indexed national and international journals. In recognition of his academic excellence, he was awarded the Dr. V. Rajagopalan Gold Medal for the Best M.F.Sc. Student in Fisheries Resource Management, conferred by Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu.
Dr. Nanjala Veerabhadra Rao is currently serving as an Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Fisheries Resource Management at the College of Fishery Science, Andhra Pradesh Fisheries University, Narasapuram. His area of specialization is Fisheries Resource Management, with a dedicated focus on the taxonomy, biodiversity, biology, and conservation of freshwater fisheries. Dr. Rao has made significant academic contributions, having published over 15 research papers, 35 popular articles, and 5 book chapters in reputed national and international journals. In addition to his scholarly work, he has actively engaged in science communication, delivering 11 television programs across various channels. In recognition of his professional excellence and service, he was honored with the Meritorious Service Award by the District Collector of Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh.
Dr. T. Suguna is currently serving as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) at Andhra Pradesh Fisheries University, Vijayawada. She is specialized in Fisheries Resources Managemwent, with a focus on finfish breeding, biodiversity, biology and conservation. She has hands-on experience in field identification of fishes and has published several articles in per-reviewed, Scopus-indexed national and international journals.
Mr. K. Nikhil is presently working as a Guest Faculty at the College of Fishery Science, Andhra Pradesh Fisheries University, Narasapuram. He is specialized in Fisheries Resource Management, with a particular emphasis on the life cycle aspects of fisheries management. His academic contributions include the publication of five research articles, three review articles, six popular articles, and three book chapters in various reputed journals and edited volumes. His work reflects a growing expertise in the field, contributing to both scholarly literature and public awareness on sustainable fisheries management.
1 Introduction to Aquatic Life: Diversity, Habitats and Adaptations .........1
2 Aquatic Mammals: A Comprehensive Insight into Their Life and Functions .........................................................................................5
3 Aquatic Reptiles: An Ecological and Taxonomic Perspective ..............31
4 Amphibians in Aquatic Habitats: Structure, Function, and Conservation .........................................................................................59
5 Taxonomic Status and Identification Characters of Major Aquatic Birds ........................................................................................69
6 Anatomical and Physiological Comparisons Among Aquatic Vertebrate Groups ..................................................................................79
7 Integrated Role of Aquatic Vertebrates in Fisheries Ecology and Conservation ...................................................................................85
8 Sustaining Aquatic Biodiversity Conservation of Mammals, Reptiles, and Amphibians ......................................................................93
9 Index of Terms.......................................................................................97
10 Taxonomic Classification of Aquatic Vertebrates ...............................103
11 Ecological Distribution and Conservation Status of Aquatic Vertebrates .............................................................................105
Bibliography ........................................................................................113
