Download or read book Molecular Paleobiology of the Echinoderm Skeleton written by Jeffrey R. Thompson and published by Cambridge University Press. This book was released on 2022-12-01 with total page 120 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The echinoderms are an ideal group to understand evolution from a holistic, interdisciplinary framework. The genetic regulatory networks underpinning development in echinoderms are some of the best known for any model group. Additionally, the echinoderms have an excellent fossil record, elucidating in in detail the evolutionary changes underpinning morphological evolution. In this Element, the echinoderms are discussed as a model group for molecular palaeobiological studies, integrating what is known of their development, genomes, and fossil record. Together, these insights shed light on the molecular and morphological evolution underpinning the vast biodiversity of echinoderms, and the animal kingdom more generally.