A fully renewed classic of animal physiology—comprehensive, modern, and accessible

For decades, Heinz Penzlin’s German Textbook of Animal Physiology has been a cornerstone of academic biological education. In this first English edition, Jan-Peter Hildebrandt, Horst Bleckmann, and Uwe Homberg present a thoroughly revised and updated, contemporary version of this authoritative work. This edition offers students the current state of knowledge in general and comparative animal physiology, reflecting the tremendous scientific advances of recent years.

This integrative discipline is essential for all students in the life sciences—whether in advanced bachelor’s courses or master’s programs—who explore functional anatomy, vegetative and metabolic physiology, neurobiology, sensory and muscle physiology, as well as ecological, systemic-comparative, or molecular perspectives. The textbook systematically explains how physiological processes operate across the animal kingdom and how organisms adjust to diverse environmental challenges.

The new edition features:

• Extensive didactic elements that guide understanding and support self-study
• Footnotes illuminating the origins and meanings of key technical terms
• Numerous carefully researched case studies highlighting physiological principles in real organisms 

From cell physiology to the functioning of entire organ systems—circulatory, respiratory, digestive, excretory, and more—this volume offers a clear, integrated insight into the mechanisms underlying animal life.
A modern classic, fully reimagined: authoritative, engaging, and indispensable for students of biology and related fields.

Jan-Peter Hildebrandt is Emeritus Professor of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry at the University of Greifswald, Germany.
Horst Bleckmann is Emeritus Professor of Zoology and Comparative Neurobiology at the University of Bonn, Germany.
Uwe Homberg is Emeritus Professor of Neurobiology/Ethology at Marburg University, Germany.