Fate of the Dinosaurs: New Perspectives in Evolution and Extinction

Out of 100 or so distinct ``explanations'' of the dinosaurs' extinction, Milne ( Our Drowning World ) focuses on the half dozen that he considers merit serious attention. He concludes that environmental forces ultimately defeated the dinosaurs, but is hesitant to point more precisely to any aspect other than geophysical change. Milne begins his study with the formation of the planets and the beginning of life on Earth, describing the first creatures; his examination of dinosaurs includes an exhaustive treatment of their morphology--body size, heat regulation, mobility. In his overview of theories of extinction, he discusses cosmic rays, the ``death star,'' tectonic plates, climate change. Reviewing the limitations of each theory, he notes that climatic change best withstands criticism. While this is a useful reference for students in the field, there are other books on the subject better suited to the lay reader. Illustions. (Mar.)