An extraordinary account of the evolution and biology of insects, the busy, teeming arthropods on whose activities much of life on earth depends.

Insects are the most successful group of animals ever to have lived: they comprise a million species and perhaps 10 quintillion individuals. Much of life on earth depends on the activities of these busy, teeming arthropods, from pollination to the breaking down of waste matter.

Each chapter of Planet Insect centres on one or more of the traits of insect life that have allowed them to hold dominion over the earth’s terrestrial and freshwater environments for so long, from their staggering reproductive ability to their complex partnership with flowering plants. Planet Insect offers a winning fusion of glorious imagery and fine biological writing by an entomological specialist who writes both entertainingly and with authentic scientific rigour – and who also happens to be a very gifted nature photographer.

"One of the best reads I have undertaken in 2023, the author oozes knowledge and enthusiasm" - Biologist Magazine

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PRAISE FOR STEVE NICHOLLS:

'Steve Nicholls is an expert guide, leading us across meadows blooming with buttercups and orchids... He presents a visually stunning, readable and scientifically rigorous survey of Britain's wildflowers' Countryside.

'Each of the 14 plant types, from bluebells and lilies to orchids and sundews is examined, explaining the fascinating science behind how they survive and thrive in the wild, to the remarkable social and cultural history of each, and how we have woven them into our national heritage' Garden News.

'[A] beautifully produced book... Substantial and well-informed... The author has a light touch and, while it might at first glance look like a book for the coffee table, it is definitely a book worth a closer read'