Xenopus, the African clawed frog, is one of the three most widely cited vertebrate animals in the biological literature, until now almost all knowledge has been based on laboratory experience of a single species (Xenopus laevis) from South Africa. This is the first book to describe the biology and natural history of the Xenopus and covers their systematics, ecology, distribution, species interactions, and evolutionary and phylogenetic aspects. Whilst providing a reference work for researchers working in the lab, the book also highlights the potential of Xenopus for future work in evolutionary biology, genetics, behaviour, immunology, parasitology, and ecology.

Parasites experience two environments; one reflecting external conditions, the other created by the living host. The constraints imposed by these environments provide an avenue into the rich diversity of parasitology. Papers review familiar and unfamiliar extreme physical conditions from low temperatures and desiccation to the powerful water currents faced by some fish parasites. The environment created by the host and parasite adaptation to host immunity is covered in several papers, including immune evasion, host-switching, and the effect of parasites on the evolution of immunity.