This book unpacks the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, the intriguing theory of endosymbiosis, the emergence of the first animals, and culminates in a sweeping overview of the Phanerozoic eons. How did life begin? What were the first living organisms? And how did we arrive at the astonishing biological diversity that surrounds us today?

In this book, the author takes us on a captivating scientific journey that begins with theories about the transition from non-living to living matter, including a tribute to Professor Mario Ageno's pioneering hypothesis. From there, the authors explore the earliest traces of life on Earth and delve into the relationships among the three major biological domains: bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes.

Along the way, readers will encounter surprising insights: parasites that lived during the age of dinosaurs, insect-plant interactions before the advent of flowers, and the unique evolutionary path of Australian mammals.

This is an accessible yet scientifically rigorous text, ideal for anyone curious about the deep origins of life and eager to be amazed by its ongoing transformation.

Autorentext

Andrea MF Valli was born in Milan and studied physics in Rome. Being passionate about biology and life sciences, he turned to Professor Mario Ageno, holder of the Chair of Biophysics at the University of Rome, to support a tesi di laurea. He became a doctor of palaeontology, thanks to a doctorate obtained with Lyon professors Claude Guérin and Martine Faure. After participating in excavations in Brazil, France and Turkey, he became a scientific consultant for the Conseil général of Allier for the creation of a theme park dedicated to the evolution of biodiversity. Associated with the Société Scientifique du Bourbonnais (Allier), he participates in cultural dissemination (conferences on palaeontology and the evolution of life, presentation of books and scientific publications).