eLS
Copyright © 1999-2013 by John Wiley and Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Online ISBN: 9780470015902
DOI: 10.1002/047001590X
About this Book
Your first online resource to explore the life sciences
Go to www.els.net
“...a wonderful resource - broad and deep in its coverage, current, authoritative, and very enjoyable to use.” Issues in Science and Technology Librarianship
eLS (formerly known as the Encyclopedia of Life Sciences) is a monthly-updating reference work containing over 4,900 specially commissioned, peer-reviewed and citable articles written by leaders in the field. It offers comprehensive and authoritative coverage of the life sciences for students, lecturers and researchers alike.
eLS articles are accompanied by colour illustrations and tables. Appendix and glossary material provide essential information for the non-specialist, including biochemical and taxonomic information, acronyms, synonyms, units and other technical data. As all articles have been peer-reviewed, a balanced representation of the literature is ensured.
Click here to watch the eLS video.
Key subject areas
eLS incorporates articles based on the following subject areas:
- Biochemistry
- Bioethics & Philosophy
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Ecology
- Evolution & Diversity of Life
- Genetics & Disease
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Neuroscience
- Plant Science
- Science & Society
- Structural Biology
- Virology
Excellent reviews from the experts
The eLS has received a myriad of fantastic reviews, here are just some examples:
"The most ambitious single reference source ever produced in the biological sciences..."
American Reference Books Annual
"...a superb product...one of the greatest scientific publications of the 21st Century..."
Library Journal
"The sheer scope of coverage combined with the very high quality of the content make eLS a remarkable work. All libraries serving researchers in the biological sciences, whether undergraduates or researchers in the field, should strongly consider this exemplary resource."
Issues in Science and Technology Librarianship
Available in print and online
The eLS (Encyclopedia of Life Sciences) is also available to buy in print as volumes 1-32, volumes 21-26, or volumes 27-32. To buy your print copy of the Encyclopedia of Life Sciences , please click hereand buy online via www.wiley.com.
How to cite an eLS article
It is suggested that you use the following format when citing eLS:
Langley, Ries J. and Renno, Toufic (Nov 2011) Superantigens. In: eLS. John Wiley & Sons Ltd, Chichester. http://www.els.net [doi: 10.1002/9780470015902.a0001216.pub2]
Contact eLS
For all institutional subscription enquiries related to eLS (including renewals queries and requests for free trials), please see How to Order and go to Customer Support .
All editorial queries should be directed to the eLS editorial office at els@wiley.com.
Questions about this product?

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You can also download the eLS Poster or watch the Video!
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eLS is continually adding and updating content every month – ensure you don’t miss out by signing up for e-alerts today!
What's New
eLS features over 4,900 specially commissioned, peer-reviewed and citable articles spanning the entire spectrum of the life sciences. It is a valued resource for undergraduates, graduate students and researchers.
eLS is updated by approximately 400 articles per year, with new articles publishing on a monthly basis. The most recent update was on 15th February 2013 when 34 new articles were published. Click here for details of the latest additions and to browse the abstracts.
To find out more, visit www.els.net
Article Spotlight

Ecology and Social Organisation of Bees
Social behaviour of multiple females sharing a nest has been documented for two bee families, seven tribes and genera including over 2000 species – 8% of all nonparasitic bees. Many social bees live in tiny colonies and demonstrate elasticity in behaviour and reproductive options. Larger colonies ultimately evolved permanent castes – females unable to forage, build or defend a nest – and sterile helpers, and also evolved foraging coordination and honey storage....





