Invertebrate Immunity. Mechanisms of Invertebrate Vector-Parasite Relations

effects of aldosterone on its target organ; renal handling of calcium and phosphate is discussed only superficially (other ions do receive more careful attention); acid-base balance is mentioned in a single page under the heading "Control of the Urinary pH." On the whole, however, the discussion of physiology is fair, if less than comprehensive, and serves nicely to complement the more thorough, even meticulous, treatment of anatomy and ultrastructure. The text is highly readable, though occasionally at the cost of precision, as in the introductory chapter where the difference between osmolarity and osmolality is dismissed. Generally, the author is able to describe and explain with an enviable lucidity, which allows him to address at once an intended audience of disparate backgrounds. The excellent section on countercurrent exchange and multiplication is one example. Further, he clearly and objectively presents the experimental contexts for alternative hypotheses on controversial issues. The bibliography is keyed toward reviews and recent papers, which reduces its size but not its usefulness. Despite its errors of omission, the book presents a substantial amount of information concisely and gracefully. In size and readability, The Mammalian Kidney is a highly accessible book whose shortcomings should not greatly reduce its value to the student.