Mammal Species of the World facts for kids

Mammal Species of the World: A Taxonomic and Geographic Reference is a very important book and online database for anyone studying mammals. It lists all the known mammal species and gives details about them, like where they live and how they are related. This huge collection of information helps scientists, students, and animal lovers learn more about the amazing world of mammals.

What is Mammal Species of the World?

Mammal Species of the World (often called MSW for short) is a special reference work. Think of it like a giant encyclopedia just for mammals! It contains a lot of detailed information about every known mammal species on Earth. This includes their scientific names, where they live (their geographic range), and how they are classified into different groups.

Why is it Important?

This reference is super important for several reasons:

• Standard Names: It helps scientists around the world use the same names for mammals. This makes it easier to talk about and study animals without confusion.
• Conservation: By knowing exactly how many mammal species there are and where they live, we can better protect them. It helps identify species that might be in danger.
• Research: Researchers use MSW to find out about different mammals, their history, and how they are related to each other. It's a starting point for many studies.
• Education: Students and teachers use it to learn about the diversity of mammals and how they are organized in the animal kingdom.

Who Created and Uses This Book?

This big project is put together by many experts in mammalogy, which is the study of mammals. The information is gathered from years of research and discoveries. Scientists, zoologists, conservationists, and even governments use MSW. It helps them make decisions about animal protection and research.

The Latest Edition

The most recent version of Mammal Species of the World is its third edition. It was published in late 2005. This edition was put together by two famous experts: Don E. Wilson and DeeAnn M. Reeder. They worked with many other scientists to make sure the information was as accurate and up-to-date as possible. Even though it was published in 2005, it's still a key resource today, often updated online.

See also

In Spanish: Mammal Species of the World para niños