Biology of Subterranean Fishes

Analyzing the evolutionary losses characteristic of subterranean animals, this volume is a comprehensive account of all known subterranean species. Cataloging examples of eyelessness and loss of structure in general, it evaluates the Lamarkian theory of degeneration evident in these animals versus the common assumption of adaptation and a struggle for existence. It includes an extensive introduction, history of investigations, consideration of non-stygobitic fishes in caves, and a detailed analysis of the conservation status of these very rare animals.