The scientific achievements and forgotten legacy of a major Austrian research institute, from its founding in 1902 to its wartime destruction in 1945. The Biologische Versuchsanstalt was founded in Vienna in 1902 with the explicit goal to foster the quantification, mathematization, and theory formation of the biological sciences. Three biologists from affluent Viennese Jewish families—Hans Przibram, Wilhelm Figdor, and Leopold von Portheim–founded, financed, and nurtured the institute, overseeing its development into one of the most advanced biological research institutes of the time. And yet today its accomplishments are nearly forgotten. In 1938, the founders and other members were denied access to the institute by the Nazis and were forced into exile or deported to concentration camps. The building itself was destroyed by fire in April 1945. This book rescues the legacy of the “Vivarium” (as the Institute was often called), describing both its scientific achievements and its place in history. The book covers the Viennese sociocultural context at the time of the Vivarium's founding, and the scientific zeitgeist that shaped its investigations. It discusses the institute's departments and their research topics, and describes two examples that had scientific and international ramifications: the early work of Karl von Frisch, who in 1973 won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine; and the connection to Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in New York. Contributors Heiner Fangerau, Johannes Feichtinger, Georg Gaugusch, Manfred D. Laubichler, Cheryl A. Logan, Gerd B. Müller, Tania Munz, Kärin Nickelsen, Christian Reiß, Kate E. Sohasky, Heiko Stoff, Klaus Taschwer

In this newly updated edition, veterinary and herpetocultural experts provide answers to the frequently asked question, what's wrong with my snake? This fact-filled book addresses the wide range of physical and behavioural problems that can occur during a snake's life, such as parasite infestation, respiratory infection, loss of appetite, and aggression. Both beginning and advanced snake owners will benefit from the comprehensive coverage and appealing format, which includes easy-to-read medicinal charts and instructive colour photos. Above all, this up-to-date manual offers crucial advice on how to prevent problems or keep them from becoming more serious. All snake keepers will be glad to have this vital information source in their libraries.

This is a comprehensive, practical guide to the construction, arrangement, and management of reptile enclosures, with detailed information on which reptiles are suitable as pets, how and where to squire them, their general management, and much more. Profusely illustrated and fill of useful information, "The Vivarium" will be of considerable utility to existing and prospective reptile owners, and would make for a fantastic addition to collections of allied literature. Contents include: "How to Make Vivaria", "Plants Suitable for Vivaria", "Tortoises", "Crocodiles", "Lizards", "Snakes", "Frogs", "Newts", "Fish-like Salamanders, Olms, &c", et cetera. Many vintage books such as this are becoming increasingly rare and expensive. We are republishing this volume now in an affordable, modern, high-quality edition complete with a specially commissioned new introduction. First published in 1897.

Very few spiders generate the same emotional reaction as the large, hairy tarantula. Despite their stereotypical portrayal in movies, these easy-to-care-for spiders make excellent low-maintenance pets. Designed for the beginning tarantula owner, this comprehensive manual includes essential advice on selecting, feeding, and caring for your pet, as well as tips on breeding and health maintenance. A special chapter offers up-to-date information on some of the most popular and readily available species such as the Costa Rican striped-knee and common pink-toe tarantulas. This all new addition to the renowned Herpetocultural Library puts expert-written advice at the fingertips of reptile and invertebrate enthusiasts.