Extreme Life Cycles

Some cicadas live underground for 17 years! This is a normal part of the insect's life cycle, even though it might seem extreme to us. What do they do for all those years? How do they know when it's time to come up? Readers find the answers to these questions and many more about cicadas' life cycles in this memorable guide to a basic biology concept. This exciting take on the familiar topic of life cycles keep readers engaged as they learn important facts. In addition, full-color photographs of cicadas at different stages of their life cycles are included.

Mothers often like to stay close to their babies. The Surinam toad, however, takes this to the extreme. A mother Surinam toad carries her eggs on her back until they hatch! How does she do this? Readers find the answer as they explore the ins and outs of one of nature's most fascinating life cycles. Basic biology concepts are presented in a fun and unique way, and the simple, focused text allows young readers to practice independently gathering information. In addition, impressive photographs show these toads at every stage of their life cycle.

Some creatures lay their eggs in a nest. Others lay them in water. A parasitoid wasp, however, lays its eggs in and on other insects! This might seem like something out of a horror movie, but it's the reality of the natural world-and readers learn all about it in this fun and freaky science guide. The achievable main text, which is paired with full-color photographs, allows readers to independently discover cool facts about parasitoid wasps-from how they choose their host and how many eggs they lay to what happens after they hatch.

Clown fish are very popular sea creatures, but there are some facts about them that still might surprise people. For example, all clown fish are born male! This and other fun facts about these colorful creatures are presented to readers in this exciting guide to a clown fish's life cycle. Detailed photographs of clown fish at different stages of their growth and development complement the accessible main text, helping readers visualize this extreme life cycle. Essential science concepts are explained using short, simple sentences and accessible language to help independent readers confidently navigate this introduction to basic biology.