Chemical Cover: Smells and Poisons

Many mammals, reptiles, fish, and amphibians produce chemicals in their bodies in order to ward off predators. Some manufacture poisons or smelly or painful substances in their own bodies. Others acquire these chemicals through their diet. Engaging text and eye-catching photographs invite readers to delve into the world of stinky sprays, poisonous skin, and slimy goo in order to understand how animals use these chemicals to defend themselves. A discussion of humans’ relationship to chemical weapons helps deepen students’ understanding of chemicals as defense, while fast facts and lively sidebars explore unusual venoms and behaviors.