Although the solution self-assembly of block copolymers has enabled the fabrication of a broad range of complex, functional nanostructures, their precise manipulation and patterning remain a key challenge. Here we demonstrate that spherical and linear supermicelles, supramolecular structures held together by non-covalent solvophobic and coordination interactions and formed by the hierarchical self-assembly of block copolymer micelle and block comicelle precursors, can be manipulated, transformed and patterned with mediation by dynamic holographic assembly (optical tweezers). This allows the creation of new and stable soft-matter superstructures far from equilibrium. For example, individual spherical supermicelles can be optically held in close proximity and photocrosslinked through controlled coronal chemistry to generate linear oligomeric arrays. The use of optical tweezers also enables the directed deposition and immobilization of supermicelles on surfaces, allowing the precise creation of arrays of soft-matter nano-objects with potentially diverse functionality and a range of applications.

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Bulwer's wattled pheasant (Lophura bulweri) have traditionally been housed in pairs in captivity, although it is unknown whether monogamy is the species' natural mating system. In 1998 we placed our group of 3.3 L. bulweri together in a complex outdoor habitat, in order to investigate several questions. These included whether monogamous pairing was the natural mating system for the species, how the new grouping would affect their behavior, and what microhabitats the individuals preferred within the complex habitat. Initially, all six individuals remained in the same enclosure without conflict. After a period of approximately 6 weeks, 2.1 of these individuals were removed for their safety, due to increasingly aggressive interactions. The data we collected indicate that the species may have an exploded lek type of mating system in the wild and that individuals may flock together in the nonbreeding season. In addition, males and females seem to prefer different types of shade regimes. These results suggest ways to improve husbandry and breeding success of the species in captivity. Zoo Biol 20:15-25, 2001. Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

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A review of Trogons and Quetzals of the World by Paul A. Johnsgard. Washington, DC: Smithsonian Institution Press, 2000, 223 pp., $49.95, hardbound. The first time I saw a member of the family Trogonidae in the wild was in Manu National Park in Peru. During a walk through the forest, I spied a black-tailed trogon (Trogon melanurus) sitting quietly on an exposed perch. I watched the bird for probably 15 minutes before it took off and receded into the forest. I have certainly seen my fair share of beautiful birds in the wild (although, admittedly, I am always wanting to increase that share), but that was a sight I will never forget. And to think that the black-tailed trogon is not even considered a strong contender for the most impressive member of its family! The 39 currently recognized species of trogons and quetzals (members of the family Trogonidae) capture the imaginations of birders, ornithologists, and aviculturists for a number of reasons. Beyond the subjective assessment of their beauty (the resplendent quetzal is often described as the most beautiful bird in the world), the family represents the tropics of the world perhaps better than any other taxonomic group. Trogonids inhabit both New and Old World tropical forests and are found almost exclusively between 30° north and 30° south latitudes. Because of the threats to tropical forests, trogonid abundance and status (although largely unclear for most of the species) can serve as a proxy for the health and status of the tropical forests of the world. Trogonids achieved mythical status in certain pre-modern cultures and continue to captivate humans to the present. The resplendent quetzal is the national bird of Guatemala and lends its name to that country's currency. For all these reasons, our species finds this group of birds compelling.Despite our fascination with trogonids, there is a marked lack of information about the natural history, ecology, or status of many of the species. And, before the book that is the subject of this review, no author has made the effort to bring together all known information about trogonids in one place for more than a century. Paul Johnsgard has done all trogonid aficionados, and any other parties interested in this fascinating group of birds, a service by producing Trogons and Quetzals of the World. As he has done so well before (notably in books like Cormorants, Darters, and Pelicans of the World, The Cranes of the World, and The Pheasants of the World: Biology and Natural History), Johnsgard pulls all currently known information about an important group of birds into one excellent package.

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