Biodiversity / Ecosystems Books

Book SynopsisAustralia's native land snails are an often-overlooked invertebrate group that forms a significant part of terrestrial biodiversity, with an estimated 2,500 species present in Australia today. This volume offers an overview of Australia's land snail faunas, offering a greater understanding of their role in the natural environment.Trade Review"This guide presents an overview of both native and introduced snail species around the country, offering a greater understanding of their role in our natural environment. It’s packed with information, beautiful photographs and diagrams, which include detailed features of snails and their shells. It also lists a broad range of Australia’s native snail, semi-slug and slug species, plus many of the large number of introduced exotic species." * Gardening Australia magazine *"Overall, this book is richly illustrated throughout, well presented and is an excellent first introduction to Native Australian Landsnails." -- Ben Schneider * Western Australian Naturalists Club *

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Book SynopsisDescribes the 582 species of wild orchids that occur in NSW and the ACT. Guide to Native Orchids of NSW and ACT describes each species, enabling their identification in the field, and includes over 600 photographs of wild orchids in their natural habitat and distribution maps for almost all species.Trade Review"It is a very useful, readable resource and I recommend the inclusion of Guide to Native Orchids of NSW and ACT on your book case… or better still beside your computer as you identify your orchid photos." -- Jeanette Jeffery * Australian Native Plants Society Canberra Region 21(1) *"This is an important addition to the already rich trove of Australian field guides, is a must for any NSW field naturalist, and would also be of practical interest to those in northern Victoria and south-eastern Queensland." -- Ian Fraser * Natural History Reviews #30 *"Featuring orchids with a dazzling array of colour and form, this is the essential guide for all orchid enthusiasts." * Australian Wildlife Volume 3 *

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Book SynopsisAustralia is home to an incredible diversity of native animals. While Australian animals are among the most unique in the world, they are also among the most endangered, with hundreds currently on the brink of extinction. We must act quickly if we are to save these species, as once gone, they are gone forever. Extinct is a collection of artworks from established and emerging Australian fine artists, each depicting an Australian animal that has already, for various reasons, tumbled over the edge into extinction. Extinct laments their loss, but also celebrates their former existence, diversity and significance. The stunning artworks are accompanied by stories of each animal, highlighting the importance of what we have lost, so that we appreciate what we have not lost yet. FEATURESFeatures original artworks by over 40 of Australia's contemporary and most distinguished artists, including those from Indigenous and migrant backgrounds and artists with intellectual disabilities. HighligTrade Review"I am devastated that I will never see a Gastric Brooding Frog give birth through her mouth or a Big Eared Hopping Mouse disappear into the distance. I will never hear the call of a Christmas Island Pipistrelle pierce the night or the roar of a Thylacinus. With whimsical portraits and sober words, Dr Benjamin Gray reminds us of what we have already lost and implores us to keep fighting for all our unique creatures – be they small, brown or hopping." -- Dr Jenny Gray * Chief Executive Officer, Zoos Victoria *"Notwithstanding the eloquence and insightfulness of the words, it is the artworks that give this book its power, pathos and beauty; its ability to move us. Each of the 39 extinct species is portrayed in a manner that gives some sense of its essence." -- John Woinarski * Historical Records of Australian Science 33(1) *"The stunning artworks are accompanied by stories of each animal, highlighting the importance of what we have lost so that we appreciate the species we have not yet lost." * Australian Wildlife Volume 3 *

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Book SynopsisTapping into the deep knowledge of the best frog experts in south-eastern Australia, Frogs of Victoria not only provides the tools to identify Victorian frogs - including keys, photographs and comparative information on similar species - it also presents detailed information on their biology, habitats, status and threats.Trade Review"Including stunning images from some of Australia’s finest wildlife photographers, Frogs of Victoria is an authoritative resource for ecologists, land managers, conservationists and all who are fascinated by frogs." * Frogcall 185 *"The authors not only provide thorough descriptions of adults, mostly showing adult dorsal and ventral views, but also give a good summary of species’ biology, including some egg and tadpole photos. The distribution maps for each species are very clear, showing where each frog occurs in red grid squares overlain on the green map. Distribution text provides both the species full Australian distribution as well as where it occurs in Victoria. So, should you add this book to your amphibian library? Absolutely without a doubt, I highly recommend it!" -- Marion Anstis * FrogCall 188 *"This comprehensive and informative guide to every species of frog in Victoria, is the definitive reference guide for nature enthusiasts and professionals alike." -- Ray Draper * Growing Australian 266 *

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Book SynopsisPresents seven key natural assets and why they are so valuable for biodiversity and productivity on farms. Drawing on two decades of long-term ecological monitoring and knowledge exchange, this book is a tool for building and enhancing natural assets in agricultural landscapes.

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Book SynopsisAustralia is home to many distinctive species of birds, and Aboriginal peoples have developed close alliances with them over the millennia of their custodianship of the country. This book provides a review of the broad physical, historical and cultural relationships that Aboriginal people have had with the Australian avifauna.Trade Review"With its exploration of Indigenous knowledge of birds, this book should help inform future research in ornithology, anthropology and ethnoscience, and will be of interest to everyone who has an interest in the Australian landscape, ecology and it’s avian inhabitants." * Wildlife Health Australia *From the Prologue: "Since the dawn of time our people have had a spiritual, environmental and cultural connection to all birds and their habitats. Whether it be through our Ngartji [ngaitji] system which defines our roles and responsibilities of caring for Country and all in it, our storylines and songlines, as a food source, as a material source or as a transmitter of messages – birds are and have always been a part of our daily rituals and wellbeing. This book encompasses all that is our connection to Country and self." -- Mark Koolmatrie * Ngarrindjeri Elder *"This is a very welcome publication. Anthropologist Philip Clarke has produced a wide-ranging survey of the historical and cultural relationships between Australia’s aboriginal peoples and its distinctive avifauna." -- Jeremy Mynott * Association of Field Ornithologists BookReview *

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Book SynopsisMistletoes are fascinating, diverse, colourful and ecologically important plants, found in most parts of Western Australia. This book is a guide to identification, mistletoe ecology, conservation, biogeography and evolution, including how mistletoes cope with fire.Trade Review"This is a comprehensive guide to the identification, ecology, evolution, biogeography and conservation of the colourful, diverse and ecologically important indigenous mistletoes of Western Australia." * Gardening Australia *"I consider this book to be of tremendous value, even to the non-mistletoe enthusiast." -- Peter Rogers * Growing Australian No 264 *

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Book SynopsisPresents contributions by more than 200 researchers and managers with direct involvement in the management and conservation of the biodiversity affected by Australia’s Black Summer wildfires. The book provides a comprehensive review of the impacts of these fires on all components of biodiversity, and on Indigenous cultural values.Trade Review"Australia’s Megafires contains an outstanding amount of information and should serve as both a useful reference resource for future natural disaster events, together with bring a sombre reminder of the impact of the 2019-20 bushfires. The lessons learned have global relevance, and will support future wildfire preparedness and response efforts." * Wildlife Health Australia *"[Australia's Megafires] involved contributions from more than 200 scientists and experts. It provides the most comprehensive assessment yet of how the fires affected biodiversity and Indigenous cultural values, and how nature has recovered." * The Conversation *

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Book SynopsisDescribes the 447 species of wild orchids that occur in Victoria, Australia. The guide includes brief descriptions of all species, enabling their identification in the field. With more than 460 photographs of wild orchids in their natural habitat and distribution maps, this guide will delight and inspire anyone interested in orchids.Trade Review"It is the thoroughness of the treatment which is so impressive, with close up photographs of nearly everything, detailed locality maps and the author’s passion for assisting with identification and providing more information in the form of the Notes." -- Tony Cavanagh * Growing Australia No 264 *"Orchid enthusiasts will love this comprehensive guide to the 447 species of wild orchids in Victoria, including 66 species not previously described." * Gardening Australia *

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Book Synopsisâa number of chapters provide excellent summaries of the modern methods available for studying fungal ecology, along with those more traditional methods that are still extremely valuableâoverall it is a hugely valuable compendium of fungal ecology research. It is a must for the library shelf.-Lynne Boddy, Cardiff University, UK, Mycological Research, 2006These 44 chapters are an excellent starting point for anyone interested in fungal communities, in the broadest sense of the term. It is a book for dipping intoâmay be the last comprehensive treatment of fungal communities before the molecular revolution.-Meriel Jones, University of Liverpool, UK, Microbiology Todayâ the scope of the work is tremendous. â Excellent chapters providing overviews of methods â provide a snap shot of the current approaches used to understand fungal communities at several levels of organization. This book should probably be on the shelf of every student of mycology, and many ecoloTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE THIRD EDITION"…a number of chapters provide excellent summaries of the modern methods available for studying fungal ecology, along with those more traditional methods that are still extremely valuable…overall it is a hugely valuable compendium of fungal ecology research. It is a must for the library shelf, and at its reasonable price I highly recommend it for purchase by any researcher with an interest in fungi and the environment."—Lynne Boddy, Cardi University, UK, Mycological Research, 2006"These 44 chapters are an excellent starting point for anyone interested in fungal communities, in the broadest sense of the term. It is a book for dipping into…may be the last comprehensive treatment of fungal communities before the molecular revolution."—Meriel Jones, University of Liverpool, UK, Microbiology Today"… the scope of the work is tremendous. The editors have done an admirable job of assembling authors whose combined writings convey current ideas in fungal ecology while still managing to introduce mycologists and ecologists to the concepts and historical context of each others’ work. Excellent chapters providing overviews of methods … provide a snap shot of the current approaches used to understand fungal communities at several levels of organization. This book should probably be on the shelf of every student of mycology, and many ecologists too. For all students, this book should be a valuable resource and source of inspiration."—Daniel Henk, Imperial College Faculty of Medicine, Dept. of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London in Inoculum, Vol. 59, No. 3, May 2008"Thorough taxonomic and subject indices further aid the reader in navigating through multiple authors’ treatments of subjects of interest. Well provisioned bibliographies are another useful addition. … this book would be a handy reference for researchers … ."—Anthony Amend, Department of Botany, University of Hawai at Manoa in Economic Botany, Vol. 61, No. 1, 2007Table of ContentsIntegrating genomics and metagenomics into community analysis. Changing the species concept. Molecular methods for fungal identification. Metagenomics, transcriptomics and proteomics. Recent advances in fungal endophyte research. Host switching and speciation in Cordicipitaceae. Endophytes and plant stress protection. Endophytes and defensive mutualism. Ecologies of endophytes (life styles of endophytes). Fungal communities in natural ecosystems. Terrestrial communities. Marine and Aquatic communities. Fungal Faunal Interactions. Below ground trophic interactions. Fungal propagule dispersal. Entomopathogenic fungi. Emerging fungal diseases. Bark beetle fungal interactions. Fungal communities and climate change and pollution. Climate change. Metal and organic pollutants. Invasive plant diseases. Fungal conservation. Harvesting practices and impacts. State of fungal conservation around the world. Fungi in the built envitonment. Decomposition of structures. Molds asthmas and allergies. Spoilage of human artefacts (paper, film etc.). Fungal communities in stresses environments (space station, Antarctic structures, etc.). Fungal signaling and communication. Mycorrhizal network as a communication system. Plant fungal communications. Plant animal communication. Fungal bacterial communication.

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Book SynopsisMarine macrophytes (macroalgae, seagrasses, and mangroves) comprise thousands of species distributed in shallow water areas along the world's coastlines. They play a key role in marine ecosystems regarding biodiversity and energy flow. A large proportion of macrophyte species can be characterised as ecosystem engineersorganisms that directly or indirectly affect the availability of resources to other species by modifying, maintaining, and creating habitats. This book is divided into three main themes: Marine macroalgae and seagrasses as sources of biodiversity gives an overview of the diversity of the main organisms associated with macrophytes, and their functional role and interactions within their hosts. Primary and secondary production of Macrophytes synthesizes research on food web structures derived from/or associated with, macrophytes and the transfer of macrophytic primary and secondary production from one ecosystem to another.Trade ReviewThis excellent new volume is devoted to the ecology, biodiversity, and energy production and flow of macroalgae and seagrasses living along the coastlines of oceans and the most recent environmental threats to their communities. Chapters are written by experts in the field and packed with detailed information and primary sources, together forming a synopsis of the role of these critical producers…. The editor has nicely tied the chapters together, and the volume…is impressive in its coverage. --C. W. Schneider, Trinity College (CT)Table of ContentsSection 1: Marine Macroalgae and Seagrasses as Sources of Biodiversity. Section 2: Production of Macrophytes. Section 3: Human Threats to Macrophytic Ecosystem Engineers.

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Book SynopsisThis book reviews up-to-date knowledge on the biology of sole (Solea senegalensis and S. solea). These flatfish species are increasingly important in Europe both from the ecological and production point of view. This book is divided into two sections: A. general fisheries, aquaculture and engineering overviews; B. physiological, developmental, rhythmic, welfare and genetic aspects which will be of immense interest for the aquaculture industry. Experts, from both academia and research institutes, provide their expertise on sole biology.Trade Review"This work, which combines the efforts of Muñoz-Cueto (Univ. of Cádiz), Sánchez (Spanish National Research Council), and Vázquez (Univ. of Murcia) with those of at least 50 other contributing authors, provides fisheries managers and researchers with one concise reference on the genus Solea. As an important commercial food fish in much of the Mediterranean (and elsewhere), the sole is a worthy subject for this collection of essays, which amounts to a comprehensive resource for life history and management information. The book is presented in two sections. Section A comprises only two chapters, providing a basic overview of the biology and culture of the sole. Section B comprises 15 chapters, which are grouped in subareas covering reproduction, larval development, nutrition, welfare, ecotoxicology, pathology, osmoregulation, and genomic characteristics. The book is highly technical in style and scope, and probably would not be attractive to a general readership. Nonetheless, it would be an excellent resource for fisheries managers, fisheries professionals including those involved in aquaculture, and other researchers with a specific interest in the biology and flourishing survival of the sole."— K. R. Thompson, Missouri State University, CHOICE, June 2020 Vol. 57 No. 10Table of ContentsBiology, Ecology and Exploitation. General biology, ecology, and distribution. Fisheries, aquaculture, and marketing. Grow out holding systems. Reproduction, Development, Nutrition, Genetics, Welfare, and Pathology. Environmental transduction: pineal organ and melatonin. Neuroendocrine control of reproduction. Reproductive physiology and spawning techniques. Gamete physiology and artificial fertilization. Mating behavior. The biological clock: from early stages to adults. Embryo and larval ontogeny. Light, temperature, and feeding during early development. Larval production techniques. Nutrition and feeding behavior. Diet formulation and feeding systems. Stress, welfare issues, and immune system. Ecotoxicology. Pathology and diseases control. Genetics and genomic tools.

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Book SynopsisPinnipeds are a fascinating group of marine mammals that play a crucial role as apex predators and sentinels of the functioning and health of marine ecosystems. They are found in the most extreme environments from the Polar regions to the tropics. Pinnipeds are comprised of about 34 species, and of those at least 25% live permanently in tropical zones. This book reviews and updates current research on the biology, marine ecology, bio-monitoring, and conservation of tropical pinniped populations, including their behavior, anthropogenic stressors, and health. It also looks at challenges to be faced for the conservation of tropical pinnipeds, many of which are threatened species.Table of ContentsIntroduction to Tropical and Subtropical Pinnipeds. An Overview on the Evolutionary History of Tropical Pinnipeds. Variability in the Skull Morphology of Adult Male California Sea Lions and Galapagos Sea Lions. Hawaiian Monk Seals: The Biology and Ecology of the World’s only Tropical Phocid. Hawaiian Monk Seal Conservation: Past, Present and Future. Guadalupe Fur Seal Population Expansion and its Post-Breeding Male Migration to the Gulf of Ulloa, México. Population Status, Anthropogenic Stressors and Conservation of the Galapagos Fur Seal (Arctocephalusgalapagoensis): An Overview. Diving Physiology, Foraging and Reproductive Behavior of the Galapagos Sea Lion (Zalophus wollebaeki). Management Strategies and Conservation Status of Galapagos Sea Lion Populations at San Cristobal Island, Galapagos, Ecuador. Population Ecology, Trends and Distribution of the Juan Fernandez Fur Seal, Arctocephalus philippii (Peters 1866) in Chile. Population Ecology and Conservation Status of the South American Sea Lion in Uruguay Ecology and Conservation Status of the South American Fur Seal in Uruguay. The Uncertain Fate of the Endangered Mediterranean Monk Seal Monachus monachus in the 21st Century: Population, Ecology and Conservation Threats. Bioecology and Conservation Threats of the Cape Fur Seal Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus. Emerging Pathogens and Health Issues in the 21st Century: A Challenge for Tropical and Subtropical Pinnipeds. Pathologies of Pinnipeds in Brazil.

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Book SynopsisBiogeography and Evolution in New Zealand provides the first in-depth treatment of the biogeography of New Zealand, a region that has been a place of long-enduring interest to ecologists, evolutionary scientists, geographers, geologists, and scientists in related disciplines. It serves as a key addition to the contemporary discussion on regionalizationhow is New Zealand different from the rest of the world? With what other areas does it share its geology, history, and biota? Do new molecular phylogenies show that New Zealand may be seen as a biological parallel universe' within global evolution? Trade ReviewI believe this to be a significant, and comprehensive, account of the plants and animals of New Zealand. It is replete with distribution maps done in an original style. Heads’s approach to biogeography is notable for its originality, and this manuscript is an especially good example. There is nothing like it. Forty years ago I wrote (and am quoted by Heads): ‘With regard to general problems of biogeography, the biota of New Zealand has been, perhaps, the most important of any in the world. …all notable authorities have felt obliged to explain its history: explain New Zealand and the world falls into place around it.’And so it is with Heads’ manuscript!—Gareth Nelson, School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, AustraliaThe author has made a significant contribution by drawing together information on the New Zealand biota and its relationships from around 2000 primary sources. As a compendium, it has no equal. Although its theoretical content will be challenged, Heads has provided an accessible entrée to the diversity of the New Zealand biota.-- Richard N. Holdaway, Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand, in The Quarterly Review of Biology, Vol 93, 2018I believe this to be a significant, and comprehensive, account of the plants and animals of New Zealand. It is replete with distribution maps done in an original style. Heads’s approach to biogeography is notable for its originality, and this manuscript is an especially good example. There is nothing like it. Forty years ago I wrote (and am quoted by Heads): ‘With regard to general problems of biogeography, the biota of New Zealand has been, perhaps, the most important of any in the world. …all notable authorities have felt obliged to explain its history: explain New Zealand and the world falls into place around it.’And so it is with Heads’ manuscript!—Gareth Nelson, School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, AustraliaThe author has made a significant contribution by drawing together information on the New Zealand biota and its relationships from around 2000 primary sources. As a compendium, it has no equal. Although its theoretical content will be challenged, Heads has provided an accessible entrée to the diversity of the New Zealand biota.-- Richard N. Holdaway, Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand, in The Quarterly Review of Biology, Vol 93, 2018Table of ContentsAnalyzing the Spatial Component of Evolution. Analyzing the Timeline of Evolution. New Zealand Geology. An introduction to the New Zealand Biota and its Geography. Biogeography of the Northern New Zealand Offshore Islands. Biogeography of the New Zealand Subantarctic Islands and the Chatham Islands. Biogeography of Mainland New Zealand and Neogene Geology: the Alpine Fault, the Kaikoura Orogeny, and the Pleistocene Glaciation. Case Studies of New Zealand Plants. Some More Case Studies of New Zealand Plants. Case Studies of New Zealand Animals. Structural Evolution and Ecology. Biogeography and Evolution in New Zealand Birds. Biogeography and Evolution in New Zealand Bats. Conclusions.

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Book SynopsisThis handbook focuses on the enormous literature applying statistical methodology and modelling to environmental and ecological processes. The 21st century statistics community has become increasingly interdisciplinary, bringing a large collection of modern tools to all areas of application in environmental processes. In addition, the environmental community has substantially increased its scope of data collection including observational data, satellite-derived data, and computer model output. The resultant impact in this latter community has been substantial; no longer are simple regression and analysis of variance methods adequate. The contribution of this handbook is to assemble a state-of-the-art view of this interface. Features: An internationally regarded editorial team. A distinguished collection of contributors. A thoroughly contemporary treatment of a substantial interdisciplinary interTrade Review"This is an extremely well-composed book, offering an interdisciplinary exposure to the concepts and methods that are very valuable to perform environmental and ecological data analysis. The contributors are recognized experts in the topics of their writing...Noteworthy features in this book are introducing uncertainty, anisotropy and non-stationarity, threshold exceedance, coenospace, stochasticity, tail-down models, entropy-based design among others...I highly recommend this book to environmental, climate, statistics and computing researchers and practicing professionals."- Ramalingam Shanmugam, JSCS, Aug 2020 Table of ContentsIntroduction. Methodology for Statistical Analysis of Environmental Processes. Basics of modeling for environmental processes. Time series methodology. Dynamic models. Geostatistical modeling for environmental processes. Point patterns. Data fusion. Analysis of Extremes. Environmental sampling methods. Zero-inflation modeling and hurdle models. Ordination methods. Topics in Ecological Processes. Species distribution models – Plants. Species distribution models - Animals. Demography. Modeling traits. Ecology of infectious diseases. Wildfires and fire recovery. Modeling of streams. Topics in Environmental Exposure. Modeling environmental contaminants. Data fusion for exposure. Modeling other exposures and modeling personal exposure. Preferential sampling with regard to exposure levels. Dynamic source apportionment. Dynamics of environmental epidemiology. Connecting exposure to outcome. Experimental design for environmental epidemiology. Topics in Climatology. Trends in climatology. Climate models. Spatial analysis for climatology. Remote sensing - the statistical contribution. Data assimilation. Spatial extremes with application to climate and environmental exposure. Paleoclimate and paleoecology. Detection and attribution. Effects of climate change on health effects.

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the 2018 TWS Wildlife Publication Awards in the edited book categoryThe various species of new world blackbirds, often intermingled in large foraging flocks and nighttime roosts, collectively number in the hundreds of millions and are a dominant component of the natural and agricultural avifauna in North America today. Because of their abundance, conspicuous flocking behavior, and feeding habits, these species have often been in conflict with human endeavors. The pioneering publications on blackbirds were by F. E. L. Beal in 1900 and A. A. Allen in 1914. These seminal treatises laid the foundation for more than 1,000 descriptive and experimental studies on the life histories of blackbirds as well as their ecology and management in relation to agricultural damage and other conflicts such as caused by large winter roosting congregations. The wealth of information generated in over a century of research is found in disparate outlets thTrade ReviewRecommended by CHOICE (January 2018 Vol. 55 No. 5) for upper-division undergraduates and above; faculty and professionals.The beauty of a displaying territorial male red-winged blackbird pales when magnified a million fold. Blackbirds, cowbirds, grackles, and starlings are among the most conspicuous and abundant North American birds and gather in huge flocks in the non-breeding season. These birds can inflict costly damage on crops, and their huge roosts can be a nuisance. Mainly through the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, researchers have studied the biology of these birds and invested in a variety of "control methods." Red-winged and yellow-headed blackbirds, cowbirds, and grackles each merit a chapter reviewing their ecology. General chapters address economic impacts, habitat and climate change, and management, including repellents, frightening devices, and lethal methods. A chapter on preventive strategies for avoiding damage is unique, and the chapter entitled "The Future of Blackbird Management Research" is promising. Each chapter has its own extensive bibliography. Additionally, each chapter is a valuable contribution to the comprehension of blackbird’s "functional roles." This work will also benefit those who handle the management of blackbird flocks and roosts. Inexplicably, there is hardly a mention of the European starling, which also forms huge, hungry flocks and roosts in urban areas. --M. Gochfeld, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical SchoolTable of ContentsHistory of Research and Management, Policy and Regulations of Blackbirds. Red-winged Blackbirds. Yellow-headed Blackbirds. Common Grackles. Brown-headed Cowbirds. Effects of Habitat and Climate Change on Blackbird Populations. Population Dynamics and Management of Blackbird Populations. Repellents. Frightening Devices. Evading Strategies. Case Study: Using Harvest Theory and the Prescribed Take Level Framework to Assess Allowable Take of a Population of Red-winged Blackbirds in the northern Great Plains. The Economic Impacts of Bird Damage to Crops. The Future of Blackbird Management in United States.

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Book SynopsisOn the Origin of Species outlines Charles Darwin's world-changing theory that life on Earth had not been brought into being by a creator, but had arisen from a single common ancestor and had evolved over time through the process of natural selection. This beautiful Macmillan Collector's Library edition of On the Origin of Species is complete and unabridged, and features an afterword by Oliver Francis. Designed to appeal to the booklover, the Macmillan Collector's Library is a series of beautiful gift editions of much loved classic titles. Macmillan Collector's Library are books to love and treasure.Received with both enthusiasm and hostility on its publication, it triggered a seismic shift in our understanding of humanity's place in the natural world. It is not only a brilliant work of science but also a clear, vivid, sometimes moving piece of popular writing that reflects both Darwin's genius and his boundless enthusiasm for our planet and its species.

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Book SynopsisWe don't know what we've got until it's gone...This brief, lucid book by the Director of Science at Royal Botanical Gardens takes you on an unforgettable tour of the natural world, showing how biodiversity - the rich variety of life in the world and in our own backyards - provides both the source and the salvation of our existence. Combining inspiration stories and the latest scientific research, Alex Antonelli reveals the wonders of biodiversity at a genetic, species and ecosystem level - what it is, how it works, and why it's the most important tool in our battle against climate change.A deeper understanding of biodiversity has never been more important, as the slow violence of habitat loss has put the fate of almost one-fifth of all species on Earth at risk of extinction in the coming decades. These building blocks of life form a network that underpins almost every aspect of our lives, providing invaluable sources of food, medicine, fibre, clothing, building material and more. With simplicity and clarity, The Hidden Universe shows you not only what's at stake, but what can be done (and is already being done) to protect and restore biodiversity around the world. It marks the arrival of a bold new voice in popular science.Trade Review'Engaging and urgent' * Nature *'The Hidden Universe is a smooth read ... biological facts are leavened by personal stories Antonelli tells of his "adventures" as a botanist traveling the world in search of plants.' * NewCity Lit *'For anyone who still needs winning around to our planet's beauty - and wants to know how we can save it - this is the book they should read.' * The Guardian *

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Book SynopsisThis is the first scientific-educational work in English on this topic. The Caucasus Isthmus between the Black and Caspian Seas (38025' and 47015'N, 36030' and 50020'E) is a region in the Northern Hemisphere. It covers an area of approximately 441,000km2. Being a natural bridge between Europe and Asia, the Caucasus is an extraordinary crossroads in terms of its geopolitical status, cultural heritage, and biodiversity. The Caucasus is famous for having some of the richest biodiversity, making it one of the 34 most diverse and endangered biodiversity hotspots in the world. The region occurs from among the lush, broad-leaved forests along the Black Sea coastal area, to the well-expressed nival zone and the deserts of the eastern Caucasus. Flora within the Caucasus is diverse, with about 6,300 species of vascular plants, 1,600 of which are endemic and relict endemics (25.3 %). Biota of the Caucasus has always aroused the interest of scholars. Studies conducted by botanists and zoologists on the biodiversity of the Caucasus started in the beginning of the 18th century. Such research activities were relatively short-term, and based solely on either plant or animal investigations. Long-term, comprehensive (floristic, faunistic, biogeographical) studies of the wilderness of the Caucasus in all biomes and altitudinal zones, and in all vegetation seasons, were carried out by Dr G. Radde in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and Dr A. M. Gegechkori in the second half of the 20th and early 21st centuries. In the framework of the Caucasus biota, the main target of research activity of Dr. Gegechkori (1962-2018) was psyllids (Insecta; Hemiptera: Psylloidea) - a highly indicative (bio-indicator) group for environmental research. This text aims to provide information for naturalists, concerning the biota of the Caucasus, through its biomes, amd refugial areas and habitats. The work is focused on supplying a datebase for the current presence and distribution of many speceis, with an emphasis on the keastone species, the existance and range of which face major challenges and threats today, caused primarily by human's direct and indirect activity, and global warming. The book incorporates the most recent taxonomic ranking of plants and animals species in the Caucasus, and the regularity and history of its biomes, among other topics. The monograph is also heavily illustrated with mostly original color photos, which reinforce the scientific quality of the text. This book will be of great interest to scholars of life and earth sciences and geographers. As an interdisciplinary work, the monograph provides students of all levels with valuable information on the environmental sciences, which may isnpire them to pursue this topic within natural science, stimulating their research and career choices. Finally, the purpose of the work is to strenghten the readers' awareness of the environmental challenges among the local people of the Caucasus, in light of on-going environmental changes, and the necessity of protection of this region's natural resources.Table of ContentsPreface; Introduction; General Characteristics of the Caucasus; Biomes of the Caucasus; Index.

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Book SynopsisThis elegant treatise examines the nature of kindness through the fascinating lenses and contexts of ancient, medieval and contemporary philosophy, natural history, theories of mind, of natural selection, eco-psychology and sociobiology. It challenges the reader to consider the myriad potential consequences of human behaviour, examining various iconographic moments from the history of art and science as a precursor to the concept and vital potentials for ecological conversion. Focusing on the fundamental mechanisms of reciprocity among humans, other species, communities and nations, Tobias and Morrison lead readers on a remarkable journey whose itinerary, and the provocative questions explored, seek to affirm a pattern in evolution and in human thought that is emphatically oriented towards benevolence, not tyranny. Prosociality in all species - making others happy, kind gestures at any and every juncture of life - has, as a discipline of enquiry, enjoyed a social scientific renaissance during the last decade. Can natural selection move rapidly enough to meet that ultimate challenge? Can our species re-evolve in real time, moving from the ideas, to the ideals, to their applied engineering in a real world that is ecologically haemorrhaging? Which all the critical moral and cognitive changes in social communion such new human nature, as the Authors suggest, clearly requires? This ground-breaking work of ecological philosophy, with its roots in ancient Greek thought, represents a radical break with nearly every traditional scientific paradigm, in exploring the intuitive geography and dramatic questions of ourselves -- each and every one of us -- that will prove crucial to the survival of our species, and all those we co-habit this miraculous planet with.Table of ContentsAcknowledgments; Introduction; A Basis for Physiolatry; Options for Natural Selection; Prosociality; The Proportion of Handshakes; Violence and Utopia; The Puffendorf Hypothesis; The Rudimentary Ethics of Parmenides; Being-in-the-Worldness: das-in-der-Welt-sein; The Metaphysics of the Peaceable Kingdom; Equations of Potentiality; Indigenous Critical Mass: Neural and Biocultural; Dependent Transitional States; Albrecht Dürer and the Nature of Ecological Conversion; The Dialectics of Epiphany; Re-Negotiating the Labyrinth; Ten-Crossing Knots; Semiotic Holons; Future Symbols; A New Natural Positivism; Non-Asymptotic Boundary Solutions; Parasparopagraho Jīvānām; The Fourth Order Simile; Biological Scaling for a New Nature; Reciprocity Paradoxes; Theories of Pairing in a World of Differences; The Procaccini Effect; Bereitschaftspotential; Zoosemiotic Translations; Conscious Speciation; Coda; About the Authors/Translator; Index.

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Book SynopsisExploring the link between human well-being and the environment, "Biodiversity Change and Human Health" brings together leading experts from the natural science and social science realms as well as the medical community to explore the explicit linkages between human-driven alterations of biodiversity and documented impacts of those changes on human health.The book utilizes multidisciplinary approaches to explore and address the complex interplay between natural biodiversity and human health and well-being. The five parts examine: health trade-offs between competing uses of biodiversity (highlighting synergistic situations in which conservation of natural biodiversity actually promotes human health and well-being); relationships between biodiversity and quality of life that have developed over ecological and evolutionary time; the effects of changing biodiversity on provisioning of ecosystem services, and how they have affected human health; the role of biodiversity in the spread of infectious disease; and, native biodiversity as a resource for traditional and modern medicine." Biodiversity Change and Human Health" synthesizes our current understanding and identifies major gaps in knowledge as it places all aspects of biodiversity and health interactions within a common framework. Contributors explore potential points of crossover among disciplines (both in ways of thinking and of specific methodologies) that could ultimately expand opportunities for humans to both live sustainably and enjoy a desirable quality of life.

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Book SynopsisThe Sunday Times Best Nature Writing Books 2020 SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2020 WAINWRIGHT PRIZE A naturalist’s passionate dive into the lives of bees (of all stripes) and the natural world in her own backyard Brigit Strawbridge Howard was shocked the day she realised she knew more about the French Revolution than she did about her native trees. And birds. And wildflowers. And bees. The thought stopped her—quite literally—in her tracks. But that day was also the start of a journey, one filled with silver birches and hairy-footed flower bees, skylarks, and rosebay willow herb, and the joy that comes with deepening one’s relationship with place. Dancing with Bees is Strawbridge Howard’s charming and eloquent account of a return to noticing, to rediscovering a perspective on the world that had somehow been lost to her for decades and to reconnecting with the natural world. With special care and attention to the plight of pollinators, including honeybees, bumblebees, and solitary bees, and what we can do to help them, Strawbridge Howard shares fascinating details of the lives of flora and fauna that have filled her days with ever-increasing wonder and delight.Trade ReviewKirkus Reviews— A British naturalist offers crisp essays on her relationship with bees. In her debut book, Howard, a devoted bee advocate, pens a lengthy, knowledgeable, and occasionally poetic tribute to honeybees, bumblebees, and other buzzy creatures . . . [She] provides a nice balance between the very real science of studying bees and their function in nature and her cleareyed and eloquent observations about the natural world. Because of that balance, what might have sounded like a dry lecture turns into something far more interesting. Whether she's explaining how different bee species are classified, describing her mother's deteriorating health (and eventual death), or simply ruminating on the beauty around her, Howard creates a text that is compelling and worth your time even if you're not a fellow bee advocate."Library Journal— "[A] fascinating and wide-ranging exploration of nature. . .This satisfying memoir of a woman’s reawakening to the importance of nature in her life will appeal to fans of natural history memoirs, bees, the natural world, or ecology."Booklist, Starred Review— “[An] engaging, richly descriptive tale of natural discovery."“In this delightful book, Brigit Strawbridge Howard brings us into the fascinating and often overlooked world of bees. She introduces us to solitary nesting bees that lay their eggs in empty snail shells, cuckoo bees that make other bees take care of their eggs, and the amazing social lives of bumblebees and honeybees. Her curiosity and wonder at these small creatures are infectious and will inspire a greater appreciation of our natural world.”—Nancy J. Hayden, coauthor of Farming on the Wild Side“Hovering through Brigit Strawbridge Howard’s remarkable encounters with bees, alighting on beautiful and often unexpected descriptions of bumblebees, miner bees, and even parasitizing cuckoo bees, one dips into a world most of us have forgotten. By leading us gently and discretely into the minutiae of nature, Brigit shows how rewarding it is to reconnect—how the world’s tiniest beings can not only lift our spirits, but signal the way to a richer, wilder future.”—Isabella Tree, author of Wilding“Dancing with Bees is a passionate hymn to nature, a joyful celebration not just of bees, but of the power of paying attention. Strawbridge Howard’s rediscovery of the natural world is infused with a sense of wonder both irresistible and infectious. And the promise of this beautiful book is that if we take the trouble to notice our natural surroundings, we too can find a way to reconnect not just to nature, but to a deeper sense of ourselves.”—Caroline Lucas, MP, former Green Party Leader“I devoured this book as I would a jar of exquisite honey. I was as fascinated by it as I would be watching a hive of bees at work. I may read another nature book this year, but not a better one. Or a more important one. As is made so manifestly clear in these pages, we need our bees. Thank God, then, for Brigit Strawbridge Howard, our queen bee-advocate.”—John Lewis-Stempel, author of Still Water and Meadowland“Dancing with Bees is one of the most important and accessible and entertaining books I’ve ever read. Brigit has poured meticulous detail and research into her book, which has left me with even more respect for our precious bees than I ever thought possible. What’s more, it’s a touching, sensitive account of what makes us human and how we connect to the natural world. Everyone should read it.”—Kate Bradbury, author of Wildlife Gardening and The Bumblebee Flies Anyway“A beautiful book and one that hums with good life. Brigit Strawbridge Howard came late to bees but began noticing them at a time when their going was being widely announced. Her attention has been clear-sighted but also loving. By looking closely at the hummers and the buzzers, she has begun to take in the whole of what Charles Darwin called the ‘tangled bank’ of life, where there are bees (and Brigit’s winning descriptions will help you know them) and there are plants, and there are other pollinators and nectar-seekers, including Homo sapiens. No other insect—surely no other animal—has had such a long and life-giving relationship with humans. Bees may well have shaped our evolution; our continued well-being is certainly dependent on them. Bees have long been part of our consciousness and art, buzzing in parables and fables and ancient and modern poems made out of their industry and their organisation and their marvellous sweet products. All that is in this book: It is ambrosia.”—Tim Dee, author of Landfill“While the plight of our overworked honeybees elicits much hand-wringing, the rest of Earth’s splendorous apian diversity has remained unjustly obscure. In this winning tribute to our black-and-yellow fellows, Brigit Strawbridge Howard celebrates the virtues of dozens of less heralded, but no less crucial, wild species—mining bees, leaf-cutting bees, mason bees, cuckoo bees. Like a bee herself, Strawbridge Howard is at once pragmatic and whimsical, flitting lightly between practical advice for crafting a bee-friendly garden and wise digressions about our manipulative relationship with nature. By the end of Dancing with Bees, you’ll wholeheartedly agree that these indispensable creatures should be extolled as ‘our equals, not our minions.’”—Ben Goldfarb, author of Eager“A joy-filled voyage of discovery through the wonderful world of bees.”—Dave Goulson, author of Bee Quest and A Sting in the Tale“Sprinkled with moments of pathos, this exquisite book is the perfect introduction to the often neglected world of wild bees—and the beautiful plants with which they dance an ecosystem into life.”—Hugh Warwick, author of Linescapes and Hedgehog“Brigit Strawbridge Howard is an excellent pollinator of information. Dancing with Bees is a book teeming with love: for bees but also for the natural world as a whole and, by extension, for life itself. Everyone who cares about the future of our planet should read it.”—Tom Cox, author of 21st-Century Yokel“Dancing with Bees is an antidote to the reality of modern life that’s spent nose down in our smartphones while the wondrous stuff—nature—goes on all around us. Brigit Strawbridge Howard chronicles her own journey of reconnecting with the natural world with heartfelt eloquence. Her descriptions of the creatures, plants, and landscapes that populate her journey are made with the unabashed joy of someone for whom a veil has been lifted, revealing a world to be cherished but also in great need of our protection.”—Matthew Wilson, garden designer; author; panelist, BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time“We are handed a lens—light, bright, beautiful things come into focus. Brigit’s flare for observation and description, passion for knowledge, and ease with communication involve us in adventuring through the looking glass to explore with her the intimate life of wild bees. Gently, this timely book reminds us that nature is in trouble and that we must all join the dance.”—Sue Clifford and Angela King, founding directors, Common Ground“Dancing with Bees is a brilliantly described journey of discovery of bees, trees, people, and places, imbued with a childlike wonderment. Learn about cuckoo bees, carder bees, bees that are not bees, the commonplace and the rare. It is never too late to reconnect with nature and rewild oneself.”—Steven Falk, author of Field Guide to the Bees of Great Britain and Ireland“Well written and researched, beautifully illustrated, and packed with natural history detail, Dancing with Bees is a book to start you off on a journey that could well become an obsession. Even if you are well versed in the ways of bees, you will still want to wrap yourself in the warmth of this charming book. Brigit Strawbridge Howard gently shows you all the things you may have been missing; you are about to enter a macro-world of wonder and delight. I absolutely loved this book. If, due to infirmity perhaps, I am ever unable to walk in the countryside, I can now go dancing with bees whenever I choose.”—Dr. George McGavin, president, Dorset Wildlife Trust; honorary research associate, Oxford University Museum of Natural History“Brigit Strawbridge Howard leads us on a wistful pilgrimage of awakening into the world of bees who are among the most fascinating, charismatic, and important of insects. Written in an easy, accessible style without shying away from solid facts and beguiling detail, and beautifully illustrated by renowned Devon naturalist John Walters, Strawbridge Howard’s book is the result of hundreds of hours of watching, listening, and learning in her garden and the wider countryside, wondering what the future might bring and how human excesses may be curbed.”—Stuart Roberts, entomologistTable of ContentsPreface: Realisations Introduction: The Honey Trap 1. Spring on the Wing 2. A Nest of One's Own 3. What's in a Name? 4. The Boys Are Back in Town 5. Bees Behaving Badly 6. The Upside-Down Bird 7. The Cabin by the Stream 8. Cuckoo, Cuckoo 9. On Swarms and Stings 10. To Bee, or Not to Bee 11. Seeking the Great Yellow Bumblebee, Part 1 12. Seeking the Great Yellow Bumblebee, Part 2 13. On Bovey Heathfield 14. In Praise of Trees 15. Sedgehill, a Natural History 16. Cotton Weavers 17. Time for Tea 18. Evergreen 19. Amongst the Snowdrops Epilogue. Reflections Acknowledgements List of Illustrations Selected Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisConservation Biology brings together theory, applied research, basic research, and hundreds of real-world examples and stories from dozens of disciplines to teach students how to become practicing conservation biologists who protect and manage Earth's biodiversity. A major theme throughout the book is the active role that researchers, local communities, the general public, conservation organizations, and governments can play in protecting biodiversity, even while maintaining a high quality of life for humankind.Trade ReviewBradley Cardinale and his coauthors have channeled their expertise and insights to produce a wonderful new textbook on Conservation Biology. Along with the expected expert contributions on biodiversity and its patterns, drivers, and threats, there are novel transdisciplinary sections on ethics, morals, and values associated with conservation, all brought to life through vivid imagery, case studies, and inspirational stories. I have no doubt that this book will be a fundamental resource for a generation of conservation scientists to come. * Robin Naidoo, Senior Conservation Scientist, World Wildlife Fund *Conservation Biology is the best textbook on nature conservation I've seen. Its authors have an exceptional depth of knowledge that comes from decades of work around the world and their roles as leading scientific writers and journal editors. The prose is crisp, the real-world complexities of conservation come through powerfully, and the case studies and examples are highly topical and up to date. If I were going to teach a course on conservation biology or an allied topic, this is the textbook I'd choose * hands down.William F. Laurance, James Cook University, Australia and Singapore *This textbook is absolutely terrific! The stories and examples are enlightening and bring the whole subject to life in a scientifically compelling and personally engaging way. The illustrations are superb and the tools and approaches are state-of-the-art. The book is a tremendous asset for researchers, educators, students, and practitioners. * Gretchen Daily, Stanford University *This new textbook on conservation biology surpasses all previous texts, especially in its thorough coverage of the drivers and values of biodiversity, the threats, and available solutions. It will be of interest not only to the target audience (upper-division undergraduate and beginning graduate students), but to anyone interested in nature and conservation. The high quality of this book reflects the combined expertise and writing skills of the authors. * Reed Noss, former editor-in-chief of Conservation Biology and past-president, Society for Conservation Biology *Conservation Biology is up to date and engaging, with excellent examples from in situ and ex situ programs. It has a more hands-on approach and a global perspective that is just what I am looking for. The text includes many examples with a global perspective on key components such as biodiversity loss, climate change, and remedial actions. * Nicole Duplaix, Oregon State University *Cardinale's Conservation Biology is an excellent text that takes the best of previous texts and adds interactive and applied content to better engage modern students. * Stephen G. Mech, Albright College *Conservation Biology is driven by examples and explanations of topics like extinction that are generally left out of other texts. It has the best chapter I have read on global patterns of biodiversity * not only is it up to datebut it touches on the major drivers.Alexander Wait, Missouri State University *The writing style is very clear, understandable, and engaging, while not compromising detail and rigor. * Jay T. Lennon, Indiana University *I found the balance of material to be outstanding and especially liked the concrete, real-world examples and website links that really bring the material to life and make it especially relevant. * Mark Manteuffel, Washington University in St. Louis *I was extremely impressed * the balance of this complex topic and breadth of coverage is particularly good.Dov Sax, Brown University *Table of ContentsPreface Part I: Foundations of Conservation Biology Chapter 1. State of Our Planet Chapter 2. The Rise of Conservation Biology Chapter 3. Biodiversity Concepts and Measure Chapter 4. Global Patterns and Drivers of Biodiversity Part II: Importance of Biodiversity Chapter 5. The Many Values of Biodiversity Chapter 6. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Chapter 7. Ecological Economics Part III: Threats to Biodiversity Chapter 8. Extinction Chapter 9. Habitat Loss, Fragmentation, and Degradation Chapter 10. Overexploitation Chapter 11. Invasive Alien Species Chapter 12. Climate Change Part IV: Approaches to Conservation Chapter 13. Species-Level Conservation Chapter 14. Community and Ecosystem Conservation Chapter 15. Landscape Scale Conservation Chapter 16. Ex Situ Conservation Chapter 17. Conservation and Sustainable Development Glossary Chapter References Index

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Book SynopsisGenetic diversity is a level of biodiversity that refers to the total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species. It is distinguished from genetic variability, which describes the tendency of genetic characteristics to vary. Research has found that genetic diversity and biodiversity are dependent upon each other, that diversity within a species is necessary to maintain diversity among species, and vice versa. If any one type is removed from the system, the cycle can break down, and the community may become dominated by a single species. Thus, genetic diversity plays a huge role in survival and adaptability of a species. This book provides research on genetic diversity in plant, animal and human species. Relationships to environment changes and global warming are also studied.

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Book SynopsisCurrent loss of biodiversity places a premium on the task of recognising and formulating proposals on potential areas for biological conservation based on scientific criteria; among these tasks, identification of hotspots has a relevant role on conservation of biodiversity. In this book, the authors discuss the application of different biogeographic methods to identify plant biodiversity hotspots. The areas recognised as such have a relevant role in plant biodiversity and are important in conservation due to their climatic conditions, the historical factors that have been involved in their evolution, and the restricted distribution of some plant taxa that inhabit them. Furthermore, the consequences of deforestation on biodiversity are substantial and widely recognised. This book predicts future land-use change, generates ecological niches of large mammals and assesses wildlife concentrations and their hotspots in different areas of the world. The evolution of the forest fragmentation in the Brazilian Atlantic forest, the present situation of its remnants, and the main strategies, conflicts and potentials for conservation are evaluated as well.

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Book SynopsisThe pace, intensity, and scale at which humans have altered our planet in recent decades is unprecedented. We have dramatically transformed landscapes and waterways through agriculture, logging, mining, and fire suppression, with drastic impacts on public health and human well-being. What can we do to counteract and even reverse the worst of these effects? Restore damaged ecosystems. The Primer of Ecological Restoration is a succinct introduction to the theory and practice of ecological restoration as a strategy to conserve biodiversity and ecosystems. In twelve brief chapters, the book introduces readers to the basics of restoration project planning, monitoring, and adaptive management. It explains abiotic factors such as landforms, soil, and hydrology that are the building blocks to successfully recovering microorganism, plant, and animal communities. Additional chapters cover topics such as invasive species and legal and financial considerations. Each chapter concludes with recommended reading and reference lists, and the book can be paired with online resources for teaching. Perfect for introductory classes in ecological restoration or for practitioners seeking constructive guidance for real-world projects, Primer of Ecological Restoration offers accessible, practical information on recent trends in the field.

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Book SynopsisThis book presents current research in the study of biodiversity conservation. Topics discussed include agricultural land-use in forest frontier areas; utilization of bovids in traditional folk medicine and their implications for conservation; conservation and management of the biodiversity in a hotspot; surface stratification of soil nutrients in no till limits nutrient availability; forage resources renewal and biodiversity conservation and outcomes of invasive plant-native plant interactions in North American freshwater wetlands.

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Book SynopsisCITIZEN SCIENTIST is award-winning environmental journalist and author Mary Ellen Hannibal's story of becoming a citizen scientist - and finding more than she bargained for at every turn. She knew she was joining a flourishing community of volunteers who help conserve nature, but she was surprised to learn how this new and tech-enabled movement continues a rich tradition of amateur observation established by writers and naturalists over centuries. And she knew, in the midst of an unprecedented mass extinction, that she would find a shrinking number of species, but she couldn't know how her father's sudden passing would tear open her quest to confront loss.Ultimately, to be a citizen scientist is to intimately examine all the life that still finds a way. So as Hannibal, alongside an inspiring cast of fellow citizen scientists, discovers a wealth of species - by wading into tide pools, tracking hawks, scouring mountains - she also rescues herself from an odyssey of loss, and finds a hopeful and practical way forward.

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Book SynopsisThis book provides current research on terrestrial biomes. Chapter One demonstrates the severe conditions of arctic areas that lead to the formation of common characteristics for all complexes of soil microfungi. Chapter Two discusses plant and terrestrial microbial communities in the Alaskan tundra. Chapter Three examines spontaneous stand regeneration and herb layer restoration in post-fire woods 16 years after a forest fire. Chapter Four reviews regularities and features of differentiation and anthropogenic transformation of steppe vegetation. In Chapter Five, the capacity of combination of biomass and native microorganism for fique bagasse from farmers from a region of Colombia named Oriente Antioqueño, was studied with the objective to degrade the tetracolorisoftalonitril active ingredient.

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Book SynopsisA plastic box with a lightbulb attached may seem like an odd birthday present. But for ecologist Tim Blackburn, a moth trap is a captivating window into the world beyond the roof terrace of his London flat. Whether gaudy or drab, rare or common, each moth ensnared by the trap is a treasure with a story to tell. In The Jewel Box, Blackburn introduces these mysterious visitors, revealing how the moths he catches reflect hidden patterns governing the world around us. With names like the Dingy Footman, Jersey Tiger, Pale Mottled Willow, and Uncertain, and at least 140,000 identified species, moths are fascinating in their own right. But no moth is an island - they are vital links in the web of life. Through the lives of these overlooked insects, Blackburn introduces a landscape of unseen ecological connections. The flapping of a moth's wing may not cause a hurricane, but it is closely tied to the wider world, from the park down the street to climatic shifts across the globe. Through his luminous prose and infectious sense of curiosity, Blackburn teaches us to see, and respect, the intricate web of nature in which we're all caught. The Jewel Box shows us how the contents of one small box can illuminate the workings of all nature.Table of ContentsTable of Contents Introduction: The Moth Trap Chapter 1. The Gypsy Moth Chapter 2. Footmen Chapter 3. The Oak Eggar Chapter 4. The Codling and The Goat Chapter 5. The Uncertain Chapter 6. The Silver Y Chapter 7. The Poplar Hawk-Moth Chapter 8. The Box-tree and The Stout Dart Chapter 9. The Acer Sober Sources Notes Acknowledgements Index

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE 2020 WAINWRIGHT PRIZE A naturalist’s passionate dive into the lives of bees (of all stripes)—and the natural world in her own backyard Brigit Strawbridge Howard was shocked the day she realised she knew more about the French Revolution than she did about her native trees. And birds. And wildflowers. And bees. The thought stopped her—quite literally—in her tracks. But that day was also the start of a journey, one filled with silver birches and hairy-footed flower bees, skylarks, and rosebay willow herb, and the joy that comes with deepening one’s relationship with place. Dancing with Bees is Strawbridge Howard’s charming and eloquent account of a return to noticing, to rediscovering a perspective on the world that had somehow been lost to her for decades and to reconnecting with the natural world. With special care and attention to the plight of pollinators, including honeybees, bumblebees, and solitary bees, and what we can do to help them, Strawbridge Howard shares fascinating details of the lives of flora and fauna that have filled her days with ever-increasing wonder and delight.Trade ReviewKirkus Reviews— A British naturalist offers crisp essays on her relationship with bees. In her debut book, Howard, a devoted bee advocate, pens a lengthy, knowledgeable, and occasionally poetic tribute to honeybees, bumblebees, and other buzzy creatures . . . [She] provides a nice balance between the very real science of studying bees and their function in nature and her cleareyed and eloquent observations about the natural world. Because of that balance, what might have sounded like a dry lecture turns into something far more interesting. Whether she's explaining how different bee species are classified, describing her mother's deteriorating health (and eventual death), or simply ruminating on the beauty around her, Howard creates a text that is compelling and worth your time even if you're not a fellow bee advocate."Library Journal— "[A] fascinating and wide-ranging exploration of nature. . .This satisfying memoir of a woman’s reawakening to the importance of nature in her life will appeal to fans of natural history memoirs, bees, the natural world, or ecology."Booklist, Starred Review— “[An] engaging, richly descriptive tale of natural discovery."“In this delightful book, Brigit Strawbridge Howard brings us into the fascinating and often overlooked world of bees. She introduces us to solitary nesting bees that lay their eggs in empty snail shells, cuckoo bees that make other bees take care of their eggs, and the amazing social lives of bumblebees and honeybees. Her curiosity and wonder at these small creatures are infectious and will inspire a greater appreciation of our natural world.”—Nancy J. Hayden, coauthor of Farming on the Wild Side“Hovering through Brigit Strawbridge Howard’s remarkable encounters with bees, alighting on beautiful and often unexpected descriptions of bumblebees, miner bees, and even parasitizing cuckoo bees, one dips into a world most of us have forgotten. By leading us gently and discretely into the minutiae of nature, Brigit shows how rewarding it is to reconnect—how the world’s tiniest beings can not only lift our spirits, but signal the way to a richer, wilder future.”—Isabella Tree, author of Wilding“Dancing with Bees is a passionate hymn to nature, a joyful celebration not just of bees, but of the power of paying attention. Strawbridge Howard’s rediscovery of the natural world is infused with a sense of wonder both irresistible and infectious. And the promise of this beautiful book is that if we take the trouble to notice our natural surroundings, we too can find a way to reconnect not just to nature, but to a deeper sense of ourselves.”—Caroline Lucas, MP, former Green Party Leader“I devoured this book as I would a jar of exquisite honey. I was as fascinated by it as I would be watching a hive of bees at work. I may read another nature book this year, but not a better one. Or a more important one. As is made so manifestly clear in these pages, we need our bees. Thank God, then, for Brigit Strawbridge Howard, our queen bee-advocate.”—John Lewis-Stempel, author of Still Water and Meadowland“Dancing with Bees is one of the most important and accessible and entertaining books I’ve ever read. Brigit has poured meticulous detail and research into her book, which has left me with even more respect for our precious bees than I ever thought possible. What’s more, it’s a touching, sensitive account of what makes us human and how we connect to the natural world. Everyone should read it.”—Kate Bradbury, author of Wildlife Gardening and The Bumblebee Flies Anyway“A beautiful book and one that hums with good life. Brigit Strawbridge Howard came late to bees but began noticing them at a time when their going was being widely announced. Her attention has been clear-sighted but also loving. By looking closely at the hummers and the buzzers, she has begun to take in the whole of what Charles Darwin called the ‘tangled bank’ of life, where there are bees (and Brigit’s winning descriptions will help you know them) and there are plants, and there are other pollinators and nectar-seekers, including Homo sapiens. No other insect—surely no other animal—has had such a long and life-giving relationship with humans. Bees may well have shaped our evolution; our continued well-being is certainly dependent on them. Bees have long been part of our consciousness and art, buzzing in parables and fables and ancient and modern poems made out of their industry and their organisation and their marvellous sweet products. All that is in this book: It is ambrosia.”—Tim Dee, author of Landfill“While the plight of our overworked honeybees elicits much hand-wringing, the rest of Earth’s splendorous apian diversity has remained unjustly obscure. In this winning tribute to our black-and-yellow fellows, Brigit Strawbridge Howard celebrates the virtues of dozens of less heralded, but no less crucial, wild species—mining bees, leaf-cutting bees, mason bees, cuckoo bees. Like a bee herself, Strawbridge Howard is at once pragmatic and whimsical, flitting lightly between practical advice for crafting a bee-friendly garden and wise digressions about our manipulative relationship with nature. By the end of Dancing with Bees, you’ll wholeheartedly agree that these indispensable creatures should be extolled as ‘our equals, not our minions.’”—Ben Goldfarb, author of Eager“A joy-filled voyage of discovery through the wonderful world of bees.”—Dave Goulson, author of Bee Quest and A Sting in the Tale“Sprinkled with moments of pathos, this exquisite book is the perfect introduction to the often neglected world of wild bees—and the beautiful plants with which they dance an ecosystem into life.”—Hugh Warwick, author of Linescapes and Hedgehog“Brigit Strawbridge Howard is an excellent pollinator of information. Dancing with Bees is a book teeming with love: for bees but also for the natural world as a whole and, by extension, for life itself. Everyone who cares about the future of our planet should read it.”—Tom Cox, author of 21st-Century Yokel“Dancing with Bees is an antidote to the reality of modern life that’s spent nose down in our smartphones while the wondrous stuff—nature—goes on all around us. Brigit Strawbridge Howard chronicles her own journey of reconnecting with the natural world with heartfelt eloquence. Her descriptions of the creatures, plants, and landscapes that populate her journey are made with the unabashed joy of someone for whom a veil has been lifted, revealing a world to be cherished but also in great need of our protection.”—Matthew Wilson, garden designer; author; panelist, BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time“We are handed a lens—light, bright, beautiful things come into focus. Brigit’s flare for observation and description, passion for knowledge, and ease with communication involve us in adventuring through the looking glass to explore with her the intimate life of wild bees. Gently, this timely book reminds us that nature is in trouble and that we must all join the dance.”—Sue Clifford and Angela King, founding directors, Common Ground“Dancing with Bees is a brilliantly described journey of discovery of bees, trees, people, and places, imbued with a childlike wonderment. Learn about cuckoo bees, carder bees, bees that are not bees, the commonplace and the rare. It is never too late to reconnect with nature and rewild oneself.”—Steven Falk, author of Field Guide to the Bees of Great Britain and Ireland“Well written and researched, beautifully illustrated, and packed with natural history detail, Dancing with Bees is a book to start you off on a journey that could well become an obsession. Even if you are well versed in the ways of bees, you will still want to wrap yourself in the warmth of this charming book. Brigit Strawbridge Howard gently shows you all the things you may have been missing; you are about to enter a macro-world of wonder and delight. I absolutely loved this book. If, due to infirmity perhaps, I am ever unable to walk in the countryside, I can now go dancing with bees whenever I choose.”—Dr. George McGavin, president, Dorset Wildlife Trust; honorary research associate, Oxford University Museum of Natural History“Brigit Strawbridge Howard leads us on a wistful pilgrimage of awakening into the world of bees who are among the most fascinating, charismatic, and important of insects. Written in an easy, accessible style without shying away from solid facts and beguiling detail, and beautifully illustrated by renowned Devon naturalist John Walters, Strawbridge Howard’s book is the result of hundreds of hours of watching, listening, and learning in her garden and the wider countryside, wondering what the future might bring and how human excesses may be curbed.”—Stuart Roberts, entomologistTable of ContentsPreface: Realisations Introduction: The Honey Trap 1. Spring on the Wing 2. A Nest of One's Own 3. What's in a Name? 4. The Boys Are Back in Town 5. Bees Behaving Badly 6. The Upside-Down Bird 7. The Cabin by the Stream 8. Cuckoo, Cuckoo 9. On Swarms and Stings 10. To Bee, or Not to Bee 11. Seeking the Great Yellow Bumblebee, Part 1 12. Seeking the Great Yellow Bumblebee, Part 2 13. On Bovey Heathfield 14. In Praise of Trees 15. Sedgehill, a Natural History 16. Cotton Weavers 17. Time for Tea 18. Evergreen 19. Amongst the Snowdrops Epilogue. Reflections Acknowledgements List of Illustrations Selected Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisWhether you're a seasoned explorer or keen to discover the great outdoorsfor the first time, this book is designed to expand your horizons, inspire newadventures, and help protect our beautiful planet. Explore The Elements is acool collection of 48 eco-missions that will take you out of your front doorand into the wonderful wild world. You'll have fun and learn new skills alongthe way, and connect with nature everywhere: in your own back yard, aroundyour neighbourhood, and further afield in the UK's fabulous National Parks.

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Book Synopsis What with evolution and extinction, food chains and keystone species, rewilding and regeneration, the modern landscape of biodiversity is a vital place to explore. But how are you expected to navigate the science and significance of this complex world? Navigating Biodiversity provides you with the map you need to start exploring seriously big ideas. A wealth of provocative questions prompt ‘short cut’ answers written by experts in their field, with each one the setting-off point for instructions to help you plot your path through the biosphere. With ‘one-stop’ graphics visualizing a memorable study or idea for each topic, and ‘route map’ glossaries explaining key terms and their connections, Navigating Biodiversity is your expert guide to understanding the biology, history, taxonomy and extraordinary diversity of life on Earth; and what is being done to confront the many threats that it faces.

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Book SynopsisGreen Chemistry and Biodiversity: Principles, Techniques, and Correlations reports on new approaches to designing chemicals and chemical transformations that are beneficial for human health and the environment, a continuing emerging important field of study. This volume provides a collection of innovative research on the development of alternative sustainable technologies, taking a broad view of the subject and integrating a wide variety of approaches. With a focus on the interdisciplinary applications of green chemistry and biodiversity, this volume will be a rich resource for scientists and researchers in many subfields of chemistry and chemical engineering.Table of Contents1. Photodegradation of 2-Nitrophenol, An Endocrine Disruptor, Using TiO2 Nanospheres/SnO2 Quantum Dots 2. Biodiversity as a Source of Drugs: Cordia, Echinacea, Tabernaemontana, and Aloe 3. Biodiversity: Loss and Conservation 4. Aegle marmelos: Nature’s Gift for Human Beings 5. Seed-Growth Method for the Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticles 6. Soil Protections Functions of Medicinal Plants: Meadow and Field Weeds 7. Glycosylation of Polyphenols in Tannin-Rich Extracts from Euphorbia antisyphilitica, Jatropha dioica, and Larrea tridentate 8. Analysis and Quantification of Larrea tridentata Polyphenols Obtained by Reflux and Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction 9. Properties and Applications of the Phytochemical: Ellagic Acid (4, 4, 5, 5, 6, 6-Hexahydroxydiphenic Acid-2, 6, 2, 6-Dilactone) 10. Antioxidative Properties of Punica granatum, Peganum harmala, Dianthus caryophyllus, and Vitis vinifera Extracts against Free Radicals 11. Flavonoids for Designing Metal Nanoparticles and Their Applications 12. Ph and Temperature Factors Affecting Curcumin Properties and Its Bioapplicability 13. Integrated Water Resource Management and Nanotechnology Applications in Water Purification: A Critical Overview 14. Precision Personalized Medicine from Theory to Practice: Cancer 15. Design, Synthesis, and Studies of Novel Piperidine-Substituted Triazine Derivatives as Potential Antiinflammatory and Antimicrobial Agents 16. Metaphors That Made History: Reflections on Philosophy/Science/DNA

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Book SynopsisThis book discusses the diversity of insect species and numbers and their evolutionary associations. It illustrates the significance of insects through regional biodiversity, taxonomic biodiversity, tools and methods, and management and protection. The book examines the wide range of insect species worldwide and their evolutionary associations. It provides relevant case studies that assess how insect biodiversity may help address the needs of a quickly growing population. The book's conclusion is that a comprehensive understanding of insect biology and ecology is the only means to sustainably preserve ecosystems in a changing global environment. It discusses various topics about insects such as communication, locomotion, social behavior and their relationship to humans.

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Book SynopsisThe objective of the book Biodiversity Basics: Celebrating Life's Variety is to raise awareness and appreciation for the richness and importance of Earth's biodiversity. Through its pages, readers are taken on a journey to explore the incredible variety of species, ecosystems, and interactions that make up our planet's web of life. The book aims to educate and inspire individuals to become advocates for biodiversity conservation and sustainable living. It delves into the significance of biodiversity in providing essential ecosystem services, fostering resilience, and contributing to human well-being. Ultimately, Biodiversity Basics seeks to ignite a sense of wonder and responsibility towards protecting and preserving our planet's precious biodiversity for future generations.Table of Contents Chapter 1 Introduction to Biodiversity Chapter 2 Climate Change and Biodiversity Chapter 3 Conservation of Species Chapter 4 Economics and Biodiversity Chapter 5 Hotspots Chapter 6 Environmental Assessment Chapter 7 Monitoring Biodiversity

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Book SynopsisResults of regular monitoring of the species diversity and structure of plant communities is used by conservation biologists to help understand impacts of perturbations caused by humans and other environmental factors on ecosystems worldwide. Changes in plant communities can, for example, be a reflection of increased levels of pollution, a response to long-term climate change, or the result of shifts in land-use practices by the human population. This book presents a series of essays on the application of plant biodiversity monitoring and assessment to help prevent species extinction, ecosystem collapse, and solve problems in biodiversity conservation. It has been written by a large international team of researchers and uses case studies and examples from all over the world, and from a broad range of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The book is aimed at any graduate students and researchers with a strong interest in plant biodiversity monitoring and assessment, plant community ecology, biodiversity conservation, and the environmental impacts of human activities on ecosystems.Table of ContentsPart I: Plant Biodiversity – An Overview 1: New Challenges to Promote Botany’s Practice Using Botanic Gardens: The Case Study of the Lisbon Botanic Garden 2: New Horizons in Diversification of Temperate Fruit Crops 3: Asteraceae of India and its Diversity and Phytogeographical Affinity 4: Maintenance of Plant Species Diversity in Forest Ecosystems Part II: Plant Biodiversity and Ethnobotany 5: Plant Diversity of the Drylands in Southeast Anatolia-Turkey: Role in Human Health and Food Security 6: Observations on Some Ethnomedicinal Plants of Jharkhand Part III: Plant Biodiversity and Biochemical Parameters 7: Plant Diversity: Envisioning Untold Nanofactories for Biogenic Synthesis of Nanoparticles and Their Applications 8: Plant Diversity Repertoire of Bioactive Triterpenoids Part IV: Plant Biodiversity and Climatic Factors 9: Roles of Secondary Metabolites in Protection and Distribution of Terrestrial Plants under Climatic Stresses 10: Summer Semi-Deciduous Species of the Mediterranean Landscape: A Winning Strategy of Cistus Species to Face the Predicted Changes of the Mediterranean Climate Part V: Plant Biodiversity and Environmental Studies 11: Aquatic Plant Biodiversity: A Biological Indicator for Monitoring and Assessment of Water Quality 12: Gymnosperm Diversity of Kashmir Himalayas Part VI: Cross Talk between Plant and Microbial Biodiversity 13: Diversity of Plant Parasitic Nematodes in Pulses 14: The Influence of Soil Microbes on Plant Diversity 15: Plant Associated Endophytic Plethora: An Emerging Source of Antimicrobial Potentials Part VII: Plant Biodiversity: Monitoring and Assessment 16: Biodiversity, Bioindicators and Biogeography of Freshwater Algae 17: Quantitative Description of Upper Storey Vegetation at a Foothill Forest in Indian Eastern Himalayas 18: Significance of Permanent Sample Plots (PSPs) Established in Different Forest Ecosystems in Monitoring Ecological Attributes and Conservation of Biodiversity: A Review 19: Effects of Harvesting Plan on Tree Species Diversity: An Evaluation of Two Logged Forest Compartments 20: Diversity of Angiospermic Flora of West Bengal, India 21: Status of Invasive Plants in Tamil Nadu, India – Its Impacts and Significance 22: Patterns of Plant Endemism and Forest Regeneration Processes in Northern Western Ghats 23: DNA Barcoding as a Molecular Tool for the Assessment of Plant Biodiversity Part VIII: Plant Biodiversity: Conservation 24: Onion and Related Taxa: Ecogeographical Distribution and Genetic Resources in India 25: Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Plant Biodiversity Conservation in a European Transfrontier Landscape 26: Cryoconservation Methods for Extended Storage of Plant Genetic Resources 27: Interspecific Chemical Differentiation within the Genus Astragalus (Fabaceae) Based on Sequential Variability of Saponin Structures 28: Implementing Traditional Ecological Knowledge in Conservation Efforts 29: Conserving Forest Biodiversity 30: Invasive Alien Weed Species: A Threat to Plant Biodiversity

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Book SynopsisThe crucial importance of biodiversity law to future human welfare is only now being fully appreciated. This wide-ranging handbook presents a range of perspectives from leading international experts reflecting up-to-date research thinking on the vital subject of biodiversity and its interaction with law.Through a rigorous examination of the principles, procedures and practices that characterise this area of law, this timely volume effectively highlights its objectives, implementation, achievements, and prospects. More specifically, the work addresses the regulatory challenges posed by the principal contemporary threats to biological diversity, the applicable general principles of international environmental law and the visions, values and voices that are shaping the development of the law. Presenting thematic rather than regime-based coverage, the editors demonstrate the state-of-the-art of current research and identify future research needs and directions.This comprehensive and authoritative handbook will be an indispensable resource for legal scholars, students and practitioners alike. Contributors include: K. Bastmeijer, M. Bowman, R. Caddell, E. Cloatre, P. Davies, M. Fitzmaurice, M. Fosci, D. French, E.J. Goodwin, K. Hulme, E.A. Kirk, V. Koester, N. Mohammed, R. Rayfuse, K.N. Scott, A. Trouwborst, T. WestTrade ReviewThis is a remarkable book. It comprises the best scholars in the field covering all of the essential elements needed to understand and respond to the foremost conservation challenges of the 21st century. It is contemporary, insightful and challenging. In my opinion, this work is essential for any scholar, practitioner or student who works in this area. --Alexander Gillespie, University of Waikato, New ZealandTable of ContentsContents: Preface PART I VISIONS, VALUES AND VOICES 1. Law, Legal Scholarship and the Conservation of Biological Diversity: 2020 Vision and Beyond Michael Bowman 2. In Whose Interest? Instrumental and Intrinsic Value in Biodiversity Law Mattia Fosci and Tom West 3. Participatory Resource Management: A Caribbean Case Study Nicole Mohammed 4. The Role of Non-State Actors in Treaty Regimes for the Protection of Marine Biodiversity Elizabeth A. Kirk PART II SIGNIFICANT THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY 5. Climate Change, Marine Biodiversity and International Law Rosemary Rayfuse 6. Broad Spectrum Efforts to Enhance the Conservation of Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems Edward J. Goodwin 7. Alien Invasive Species – is the EU’s Strategy Fit for Purpose? Peter Davies 8. Countering Fragmentation of Habitats under International Wildlife Regimes Arie Trouwborst 9. Armed Conflict and Biodiversity Karen Hulme PART III GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAW 10. The Convention on Biological Diversity and the Concept of Sustainable Development: The Extent and Manner of the Convention’s Application of Components of the Concept Veit Koester 11. Whaling and Inter- and Intra-Generational Equity Malgosia Fitzmaurice 12. Common Concern, Common Heritage and other Global(-ising) Concepts: Rhetorical Devices, Legal Principles or a Fundamental Challenge? Duncan French PART IV REGULATORY CHALLENGES AND RESPONSES 13. Biodiversity, Knowledge and the Making of Rights: Reviewing the Debates on Bioprospecting and Ownership Emilie Cloatre 14. Ecological Restoration in International Biodiversity Law: A Promising Strategy to Address Our Failure to Prevent? Kees Bastmeijer 15. Non-Compliance Procedures and the Implementation of Commitments under Wildlife Treaties Karen N. Scott 16. ‘Only Connect’? Regime Interaction and Global Biodiversity Conservation Richard Caddell Index

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Book SynopsisFor at least two decades, scholars and practitioners have argued that international beneficiaries of ecosystem conservation should help pay for the supply of services from which they benefit. Yet these arguments have remained inchoate and have had little real impact on the ground. Bishop and Hill's excellent edited volume should help change that. The chapters are chock full of insights and guidance for scaling payments for environmental services to the international level. Everyone interested in the formidable problems of generating sufficient, reliable funding for international ecosystem conservation and spending these funds efficiently should read this book.'- Paul J. Ferraro, Georgia State University, USGlobal Biodiversity Finance sets out the case for scaling up Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES) at the international level. The book explores how International Payments for Ecosystem Services (IPES) can help capture the global willingness-to-pay for biodiversity, and how the resulting revenues can be used efficiently to encourage conservation and the sustainable supply of ecosystem services, on which we all depend. This timely volume includes examples of promising initiatives from around the world, supporting an agenda for action to make IPES a reality.Key questions addressed in this volume include:- Which ecosystem services are most likely to attract voluntary international payments?- How can we assess the international demand for particular ecosystem services?- How can potential importers of intangible ecosystem services ensure they receive value for money?- What is needed to become a competitive exporter of ecosystem services?- What kind of brokering and other services are needed to facilitate agreements between importers and exporters of ecosystem services?- What examples exist of international payments for ecosystem services, and what do they tell us about the potential for scaling up IPES?Researchers, teachers, policy makers, civil servants and technical staff of NGOs working at the interface between business and nature should find much useful material in this book.Contributors: A. Baranzini, N. Bertrand, J. Bishop, B. Borges, P. Covell, S. Engel, A.-K. Faust, L.A. Gallagher, C. Hill, D. Huberman, K. Karousakis, T. Koellner, M. Lehmann, A. Lukasiewicz, D. Miller, B. Norman, J. Olander, W. Proctor, F. Sheng, F. Vorhies, S. Waage, T. Wünscher, R.T. Zuehlke, S. ZwickTrade Review‘For at least two decades, scholars and practitioners have argued that international beneficiaries of ecosystem conservation should help pay for the supply of services from which they benefit. Yet these arguments have remained inchoate and have had little real impact on the ground. Bishop and Hill’s excellent edited volume should help change that. The chapters are chock full of insights and guidance for scaling payments for environmental services to the international level. Everyone interested in the formidable problems of generating sufficient, reliable funding for international ecosystem conservation and spending these funds efficiently should read this book.’ -- Paul J. Ferraro, Georgia State University, USThis timely book on “Global Biodiversity Finance” furthers our understanding of how our market-based approaches are needed to both finance and deliver conservation on a global scale. -- Francis Vorhies, ForbesTable of ContentsContents: Foreword 1. Introduction to International Payments for Ecosystem Services Joshua Bishop, Dustin Miller, Nicolas Bertrand, Fulai Sheng and David Huberman 2. Ecosystems, Economics and Payment for Ecosystem Services Joshua Bishop and David Huberman 3. The Two Sides of IPES Transactions: Exploring the Motivations for Demand and Supply Wendy Proctor and Sissel Waage with contributions from Markus Lehmann, Joshua Bishop, Beto Borges, Thomas Koellner and Anna Lukasiewicz 4. Household Demand for International Ecosystem Services: A Swiss Case Study Andrea Baranzini, Anne-Kathrin Faust and David Huberman 5. Cost-effective Targeting for IPES Tobias Wünscher and Stefanie Engel with contributions from Katia Karousakis 6. IPES Supply Side Case Study: The Surui Carbon Project in Brazil Steve Zwick with contributions from Phil Covell, Beto Borges and Jacob Olander 7. Matching International Demand For and Supply of Ecosystem Services Francis Vorhies, Joshua Bishop and Chloe Hill 8. Matching Supply and Demand in IPES: The Case of the GreenPalm Initiative Louise A. Gallagher, Bob Norman and Robert T. Zuehlke 9. Conclusions: Towards International Payments for Ecosystem Services Markus Lehmann Index

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Book SynopsisThis Handbook presents state-of-the-art methodological guidance and discussion of international practice related to the integration of biodiversity and ecosystem services in impact assessment, featuring contributions from leading researchers and practitioners the world over. Its multidisciplinary approach covers contributions across five continents to broaden the scope of the field both thematically and geographically. A multifaceted variety of case studies provide examples of the use of information on biodiversity and ecosystem services in different types of impact assessment to improve decisions at all levels, from strategic choices to individual projects. In addition to its discussion of how biodiversity and ecosystem services can improve the salience and effectiveness of impact assessment, this Handbook presents a range of applications and possible solutions to challenges in key policy and planning sectors, including urban development, land use, energy, marine areas, infrastructure, agriculture, forestry, health and tourism. This Handbook's combination of cutting-edge literature and methodological guidance supports researchers, practitioners and students in developing and implementing biodiversity and ecosystem services-inclusive impact assessment processes, which can contribute to better decisions about the use of our lands and waters. As such it will appeal not only to scholars of impact assessment but of environmental sciences, environmental engineering, natural sciences, planning and economics as well.Contributors include: C. Albert, A. Antón, M. Ashley, J. Azcarate, B. Balfors, S. Brownlie, L. Bulling, C. Cortinovis, R.T.T. Forman, S. Frank, C. Fürst, D. Geneletti, J. Goldstein, T. Hooper, P. Horwitz, M. Hughes, P. Itkonen, M. Jimenez, M. Karlson, L. Karrasch, C.M. Kennedy, J.M. Kiesecker, J. Köppel, L. Kopperoinen, O. Langmead, D. Maia de Souza, L. Mandle, L. Milà i Canals, U. Mörtberg, D. Newsome, S. Odelius Gordon, M.W. Parkes, K. Pietzsch, F. Pietzsch, A. Rajvanshi, D. Roe, D.A. Rozas Vásquez, M. Ruckelshaus, H. Tallis, L. Tardieu, F. Teillard, J. Treweek, J. Wu, L. ZardoTrade ReviewThis volume integrates across disciplinary, sectoral and national perspectives to illuminate the cutting edge of contemporary assessment theory and practice. Particular strengths include its focus on how changes in ecosystem services affect human well-being, its elaboration of methods for spatially explicit assessment, its insights on cumulative effects, its inclusive approach to evaluation metrics, and its insistence on the importance of stakeholder involvement in assessment processes. This wonderfully accessible volume will surely become an indispensable desk reference for all seeking to improve the management of biodiversity, ecosystem services, and sustainable development. --William C. Clark, Harvard UniversityTable of ContentsContents: Chapter 1. Introduction Davide Geneletti PART 1 MAINSTREAMING BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEM SERVICES IN IMPACT ASSESSMENT TYPES 2. Spatial Ecosystem Service Analysis for Environmental Impact Assessment of Projects Lisa Mandle and Heather Tallis 3. Ecosystem Services Analysis for Strategic Environmental Assessment: Concepts and Examples Davide Geneletti 4. Scoping Health Impact Assessment: Ecosystem Services as a Framing Device Pierre Horwitz and Margot W. Parkes 5. Matching an Ecosystem Services Approach with Social Impact Assessment Leena Karrasch 6. Economic Evaluation of the Impacts of Transportation Infrastructures on Ecosystem Services Léa Tardieu 7. Addressing Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Life Cycle Assessment Assumpció Antón, Danielle Maia de Souza, Félix Teillard and Llorenç Milà i Canals PART II APPLICATIONS IN DIFFERENT SECTORS 8. Impacts of Urban Development on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Berit Balfors, Juan Azcarate, Ulla Mörtberg, Mårten Karlson and Sara Odelius Gordon 9. Impacts of Agricultural and Forest Management on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Christine Fürst, Susanne Frank, Marcos Jimenez, Daniel Alejandro Rozas Vásquez, Katrin Pietzsch and Frank Pietzsch 10. Applications of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Impact Assessment in Spatial Planning Leena Kopperoinen, Christian Albert and Pekka Itkonen 11. Ecosystem Services in Marine Environmental Impact Assessment: Tools to Support Marine Planning at Project and Strategic Scales Tara Hooper, Olivia Langmead and Matthew Ashley 12. Understanding the Impacts of Ecotourism on Biodiversity: A Multi-Scale, Cumulative Issue Influenced by Perceptions and Politics David Newsome and Mike Hughes 13. Exploring the Tradeoffs Between Wind Energy and Biodiversity Conservation Lea Bulling and Johann Köppel 14. Cumulative Effects of Dams on Biodiversity Asha Rajvanshi PART III CURRENT ISSUES AND CHALLENGES 15 Addressing the Interactions Between Biodiversity Conservation and Poverty Alleviation in Impact Assessment Dilys Roe and Davide Geneletti 16. Biodiversity Offsets for ‘No Net Loss’ Through Impact Assessment Susie Brownlie and Jo Treweek 17. Mitigation for the People: An Ecosystem Services Framework Heather Tallis, Christina M. Kennedy, Mary Ruckelshaus, Joshua Goldstein and Joseph M. Kiesecker 18. Promoting Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Adaptation in Cities Through Impact Assessment Davide Geneletti, Linda Zardo and Chiara Cortinovis 19. Where are the Best Places for the Next Billion People? Think Globally, Plan Regionally Richard T.T. Forman and Jianguo (Jingle) Wu CONCLUSIONS 20. Strengthening Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Impact Assessment for Better Decisions Davide Geneletti Index

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Book SynopsisAs we continue to live through a pandemic, all eyes are on microbes: an imperceptible and pervasive threat that hangs heavy on the air and clings to surfaces. But the reality of micro-organisms is far more diverse and life-sustaining than such a notion would have us believe (hence the title of this book). Not only are they omnipresent, but we are highly attuned to their workings – both in the world at large and right here within our own bodies. Meanwhile, cutting-edge microbiome research is changing our understanding of reality, challenging fundamental concepts of free will and individuality. Threaded through everything are microbes: the very glue that holds ecosystems together. This topical, engaging and original book counters the prevailing narrative of microbes as the bane of society, along the way providing much-needed clarity on the overwhelmingly beneficial role they play. We discover how the microbiome is highly relevant to environmental and social equity issues, while there’s also discussion about how microbes may influence our decisions: even the way we think about how we think may need to be revisited. Invisible Friends introduces the reader to a vast, pullulating cohort of minute life – friends you never knew you had.Trade ReviewA fascinating exploration of the possibility of the microscopic world...This is not a book written to shock the reader, or to make the reader aghast at the number of microbes on their eyelashes, or in every breath they take. Rather, it is a book to prompt the restoration of the symbiotic relationship between the visible and invisible worlds, as well as the awareness and appreciation of what is contained within our microbiomes. -- Brian McHugh, Climate Thoughts with BrianInvisible Friends by Jake Robinson is just COOL. A journey through an ever changing understanding of the microscopic world. -- Charlie Bingham, nature and travel writerThis is an enthusiastic and hopeful romp through microbiology that encourages readers to rethink their relationship with nature and see themselves as embedded in it. -- The Inquisitive BiologistRefreshing... This book is a must for students of microbiology. -- Arindam Mitra, Microbiology TodayThis volume is an excellent introduction to the microbial world... The text is accessible to a lay audience, and it has a useful appendix with further scientific explanations and reading suggestions. Robinson uses storytelling and integrated interviews with scientists to make each point. This book could be used as a text in a general education science course as a way to introduce diverse topics such as ecology, environmental science, evolution, human health, and psychology as well as the obvious microbiology. -- D. Schulman, CHOICETable of ContentsIntroduction 1 The microbiome and humans as walking ecosystems 2 Rekindling old friendships in new landscapes 3 Antibiotic resistant landscapes 4 Microbes and social equity 5 The Psychobiotic Revolution 6 The Lovebug Effect 7 The Holobiont Blindspot 8 The glue that holds our ecosystems together 9 Microbes and trees 10 Rewild. Regenerate. Restore 11 Biointegrated design 12 Microbiome-Inspired Green Infrastructure (MIGI) 13 To catch a thief: forensic microbiology 14 Microbes in outer space 15 You are what your microbes eat 16 Nature connectedness Conclusion Microbes 101 Notes Glossary Bibliography

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Book Synopsis'A gripping read for anyone who cares about what we're doing to the planet and how we can change it' DAVID SHUKMAN, FORMER BBC NEWS SCIENCE EDITOR'Searing observations focused on our need to protect biodiversity - A tour de force' SIR TIM SMIT OBE, CO-FOUNDER OF THE EDEN PROJECT'An informative, uplifting and truly important book' JONATHON PORRITT, AUTHOR AND CAMPAIGNEROne woman's journey through South America - and the devastating story of our planet's disappearing biodiversityPedalling hard for thirteen months, eco adventurer Kate Rawles cycled the length of the Andes on an eccentric bicycle she built herself. The Life Cycle charts her mission to find out why biodiversity is so important, what's happening to it, and what can be done to protect it.From the Pacific Ocean to rainforests and salt flats, Kate learns that armadillos can cross rivers by holding their breath, that Colombia has more species of birds than North America and Europe combined, and that in threatening species and ecosystems, we're tearing down our own life support system. En route, she witnesses the devastation of goldmining and oil drilling but finds hope in the incredible people working to regenerate habitats and communities. As she reaches the 'end of the world', she realises that to tackle biodiversity loss we all have a role to play.Trade ReviewThe best travelling companion you could dream up. [Rawles'] conversational style, ear for an anecdote and searing observations focused on our need to protect biodiversity are a tour de force ... Her language is easy and her sense of humour rarely more than a heartbeat away ... I finished the book with a sense of regret that the adventure was over, inspired by the awesome and deeply melancholy at the hells she visited along the way. Welcome to the complexity of the real world -- Tim Smit OBE, co-founder of the Eden ProjectThe Life Cycle's pace is brisk, the vistas magnificent, the many characters encountered along the way compellingly and entertainingly brought to life. Even the all-important diversions ... leave one feeling stronger, more resolute than ever to support the causes and organisations she champions. This is such an informative, uplifting and truly important book, making all the right connections across many different areas of concern -- Jonathon Porritt, author and campaignerProfound and funny, philosophical and gritty, this book shares both the pain of an incredibly brave woman traveller and the enchantment as she meets the pioneers of lifestyles that seek to restore biodiversity rather than exploit it. A gripping read for anyone who cares about what we're doing to the planet and how we can change it -- David Shukman, former BBC News science editor and visiting professor in practice at the LSE’s Grantham Research InstituteThe Life Cycle will change your life. Or it should. Here is one of those rare flowers of a story whose message is as powerful, and urgent, as the beautiful writing used to tell it. It will move you, as it did me. Open it, but don't just read it. Savour it -- Carlos Zorrilla, environmental activist, writer and photographerRawles built a bamboo bike for one, but with this book she takes each reader on her heart-wrenching and heart-warming ride through South America and into the pounding soul of the vibrant biodiversity we have ignored for way too long -- Christiana Figueres, co-host of the Outrage and Optimism podcast and former head of the UN Framework Convention on Climate ChangeA call to arms to protect what's left of our precious natural world. Kate's explorations open up new perspectives, helping us understand how our daily choices impact on people and species that may be far away, but with whom we are intimately linked and co-dependent -- Helen Browning OBE, organic farmer, author and CEO of the Soil AssociationKate's epic 8,000-mile journey on a bamboo bicycle was a fabulous adventure, but she also harnesses the power of adventure to inspire environmental action by bringing to life the tragedy of biodiversity loss that requires profound systemic change to tackle -- Alastair Humphreys, author, adventurer and host of the Living Adventurously podcastA beautifully written story of eco-adventure and eco-pilgrimage. Every page of this book is a testament to courage and commitment. It is as much an inspiring travelogue as it is a plea to care for the diversity of life on our precious planet. Crossing the continent of South America on a self-built bamboo bike and encountering radical eco-activists along the way is an enchanting narrative told passionately by Kate Rawles, herself an eco-warrior. Reading this book is an immensely engaging and entertaining as well as heart-breaking experience. Read this book, you might become an eco-activist! -- Satish Kumar, editor emeritus Resurgence and Ecologist and founder of Schumacher CollegeKate Rawles is an extraordinary woman - keen adventuress, intrepid cyclist, curious thinker, passionate environmentalist and a fabulous storyteller. Riding with her along high Andean roads but also through terrifying traffic, we get fascinating insights into people, environmental projects and the threat to biodiversity and our beautiful planet. I loved this book -- Andrea Wulf, author of The Invention of NatureIn this remarkable journey from one end of South America to another on a self-made bamboo bicycle, Kate Rawles brings the biodiversity crisis to vivid life. And she does it in a way that is at once thrillingly gripping, intimately heart-breaking, touchingly funny and full of fierce hope ... Few books have illuminated so clearly and honestly what is at stake. A magnificent, inspiring and unforgettable ride. -- Julian Hoffman, author of IrreplaceableThis fabulous book will make you want to live more fully, buy less junk and appreciate our world more. It will also make you want to rewire the whole economy and scream about the mess we are making. And it will make you want to jump on your bike -- Mike Berners-Lee, author of There is No Planet BI was captivated by Kate's unique ability to take such complex and paramount matters and craft them into a thrilling, meaningful and accessible story. Her joyful and inquisitive personality shines through as she brings the reader along for the ride, while she and Woody pedal on down to the end of the world. The Life Cycle will be taking pride of place on my bookshelf -- Jenny Graham, world record-breaking endurance cyclist, presenter and author'An epic tale, passionately and powerfully told, which is less a simple travelogue and more a call to arms for urgent action to save our planet's precious biodiversity. Travelling with her self-built bamboo bike Woody (the UK's first 'home-grown' bicycle), Rawles is an authentic, compelling narrator who acts as a living epitome of the eco-values she espouses. Fascinating - and often frightening - facts and figures leap from every page as she works her way down the length of South America, meeting a vast array of inspiring experts, activists and eco-warriors along the way. A deeply thought-provoking and essential read' -- Rebecca Lowe, author of The Slow Road to TehranRiveting, poignant and laugh-out-loud funny. From the "heart of the world" in Colombia to the devastating lead mines in Peru and from the coloured lakes of Bolivia to the final breathless dash for Ushuaia, The Life Cycle is un-put-downable. Its imagery will stay with you long after the last page is turned. From her own extraordinary endurance - and the stories of those she met along the way - Rawles has conjured up a kaleidoscopic "cosmovision" for our times: a passionate call to fight for the soul of the natural world - and, in doing so, to rescue our own. -- Tim Jackson, author of Post Growth: Life After CapitalismRawles clearly and succinctly explains a range of contemporary environmental issues ... Told with high-quality, well-organised writing, it's a coherent message that integrates perfectly with [her] own uncompromising determination to complete this inspiring journey in her own way. -- Chris Fitch * Geographical *[The Life Cycle] is about encountering nature up close, about biodiversity and habitat loss, and the destruction of ecosystems. The writer's observations - of people, places, wildlife - are endlessly diverting, her prose engaging and unpretentious as she takes us along for the ride -- Rose Shepherd * Saga Magazine *First-hand experiences are interwoven with copious facts and figures ... an environmentalist's call to arms. -- Anna Temkin, Times Literary SupplementBritish writer and cyclist Kate Rawles has a penchant for raising awareness about environmental challenges through her own adventures - and inspiring action in the process * Smithsonian Magazine *

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Book Synopsis'An original, wide-ranging and carefully researched book ... contains important lessons for humanity.' Mark Cocker, The SpectatorA fascinating insight into climate change biology around the globe, as well as in our own backyards.Hurricane Lizards and Plastic Squid is the first major book by a biologist to focus on the fascinating story of how the natural world is adjusting, adapting, and sometimes measurably evolving in response to climate change. Lyrical and thought-provoking, this book broadens the climate focus from humans to the wider lattice of life.Bestselling nature writer Thor Hanson - author of Buzz (a Radio 4 'Book of the Week') - shows us how Caribbean lizards have grown larger toe pads to grip trees more tightly during frequent hurricanes; and how the 'plasticity' of squid has allowed them to change their body size and breeding habits to cope with altered sea temperatures.Plants and animals have a great deal to teach us about the nature of what comes next, because for many of them, and also for many of us, that world is already here.Trade ReviewAn original, wide-ranging and carefully researched book ... contains important lessons for humanity. -- Mark Cocker * The Spectator *[A] fascinating exploration of climate change, exploring the adaptation of species in different habitats. Hanson is a biologist whose passion and expertise are writ large here, as he combines personal observations . . . with the latest scientific research in a lively, engaging and optimistic assessment of the planet's future. -- Hannah Beckerman * The Observer * Hanson supplies abundant reason to marvel at nature's ingenuity, but also to fear for it in the face of the drastic changes we are generating. -- Philip Ball * The Guardian, 'Book of the Day' *While humans wrestle with net zero targets and greenwashing, other species have had to adapt to the impacts of climate change, as American biologist, Thor Hanson, reveals in this carefully researched book. His accounts of how squid have responded to warmer waters, and lizards to fierce storms, are both poignant and sobering. * Financial Times, Environment Summer Books of 2022 *Nature-lovers ... will marvel at the incredible ingenuity of creatures across the globe. * Publishers Weekly *'This compelling read will spark the interest of everyone who cares about what is happening to the natural world.' * Library Journal (starred review) *A masterful storyteller, Hanson interweaves his own formative experiences into the narrative ... The book's forward-looking approach seems intended to encourage readers' curiosity about climate change, with the notion that, once suitably informed, they will feel compelled to take action. * Science *Hanson is an affable guide and storyteller, with a knack for analogy, a sense of humor and the natural curiosity of a scientist. * New York Times *[Hanson is] an ideal guide to a topic that might otherwise send readers down a well of despair. ... The challenge feels overwhelming, and as a single concerned citizen, much feels out of my hands. Yet Hanson's words did inspire me to take a cue from the rest of the species on this warming world to do what I can. * Science News *Close study of how animals are living with climate change reveals that humans are at the center of more things than we realize ... [Hanson makes] glaringly clear that we are not in command of what we have set in motion. The biodiversity and versatility on display in the animal kingdom of which we are part have lots to teach us. To remain at home in the world, we too will need to change. * The Atlantic *From the author of the much-loved Buzz comes a fascinating look at the transformations that are already underway all round the world . . . Hanson combines an in-depth understanding of climate change biology with lyrical writing and philosophical insight. * The Bath Magazine *Interesting and thought-provoking . . . This book is well worth reading, to embrace and take on the wider perspective that nature is more adaptable and able to change than we might realise. * Irish Tech News *An enjoyable, thought provoking book. * Brian Clegg, Popular Science *[A] whirlwind tour of the biological impacts of climate change ... easy and enjoyable to read. * Tegan Armarego-Marriott, Nature Climate Change *This isn't a doomsday look at the future of the Earth, but encourages the reader to think critically about the impact we have on the planet, offering valuable lessons for humankind to learn . . . [An] excellent read. * How it Works *

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Book Synopsis'An original, wide-ranging and carefully researched book ... contains important lessons for humanity.' Mark Cocker, The SpectatorA fascinating insight into climate change biology around the globe, as well as in our own backyards.Hurricane Lizards and Plastic Squid is the first major book by a biologist to focus on the fascinating story of how the natural world is adjusting, adapting, and sometimes measurably evolving in response to climate change. Lyrical and thought-provoking, this book broadens the climate focus from humans to the wider lattice of life.Bestselling nature writer Thor Hanson - author of Buzz (a Radio 4 'Book of the Week') - shows us how Caribbean lizards have grown larger toe pads to grip trees more tightly during frequent hurricanes; and how the 'plasticity' of squid has allowed them to change their body size and breeding habits to cope with altered sea temperatures.Plants and animals have a great deal to teach us about the nature of what comes next, because for many of them, and also for many of us, that world is already here.Trade ReviewAn original, wide-ranging and carefully researched book ... contains important lessons for humanity. -- Mark Cocker * The Spectator *[A] fascinating exploration of climate change, exploring the adaptation of species in different habitats. Hanson is a biologist whose passion and expertise are writ large here, as he combines personal observations . . . with the latest scientific research in a lively, engaging and optimistic assessment of the planet's future. -- Hannah Beckerman * The Observer * Hanson supplies abundant reason to marvel at nature's ingenuity, but also to fear for it in the face of the drastic changes we are generating. -- Philip Ball * The Guardian, 'Book of the Day' *While humans wrestle with net zero targets and greenwashing, other species have had to adapt to the impacts of climate change, as American biologist, Thor Hanson, reveals in this carefully researched book. His accounts of how squid have responded to warmer waters, and lizards to fierce storms, are both poignant and sobering. * Financial Times, Environment Summer Books of 2022 *Nature-lovers ... will marvel at the incredible ingenuity of creatures across the globe. * Publishers Weekly *'This compelling read will spark the interest of everyone who cares about what is happening to the natural world.' * Library Journal (starred review) *A masterful storyteller, Hanson interweaves his own formative experiences into the narrative ... The book's forward-looking approach seems intended to encourage readers' curiosity about climate change, with the notion that, once suitably informed, they will feel compelled to take action. * Science *Hanson is an affable guide and storyteller, with a knack for analogy, a sense of humor and the natural curiosity of a scientist. * New York Times *[Hanson is] an ideal guide to a topic that might otherwise send readers down a well of despair. ... The challenge feels overwhelming, and as a single concerned citizen, much feels out of my hands. Yet Hanson's words did inspire me to take a cue from the rest of the species on this warming world to do what I can. * Science News *Close study of how animals are living with climate change reveals that humans are at the center of more things than we realize ... [Hanson makes] glaringly clear that we are not in command of what we have set in motion. The biodiversity and versatility on display in the animal kingdom of which we are part have lots to teach us. To remain at home in the world, we too will need to change. * The Atlantic *From the author of the much-loved Buzz comes a fascinating look at the transformations that are already underway all round the world . . . Hanson combines an in-depth understanding of climate change biology with lyrical writing and philosophical insight. * The Bath Magazine *Interesting and thought-provoking . . . This book is well worth reading, to embrace and take on the wider perspective that nature is more adaptable and able to change than we might realise. * Irish Tech News *An enjoyable, thought provoking book. * Brian Clegg, Popular Science *[A] whirlwind tour of the biological impacts of climate change ... easy and enjoyable to read. * Tegan Armarego-Marriott, Nature Climate Change *This isn't a doomsday look at the future of the Earth, but encourages the reader to think critically about the impact we have on the planet, offering valuable lessons for humankind to learn . . . [An] excellent read. * How it Works *Effortlessly combining insights into biological and climatological processes, Hurricane Lizards and Plastic Squid is a well-structured and smooth introduction to climate change biology. -- Leon Vlieger * The Inquisitive Biologist *

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Book Synopsis'Jake Fiennes is changing the face of farming in Britain... a revolutionising force' Isabella TreeOur relationship with our land is broken: we must heal it.Jake Fiennes is on a mission to change the face of the English countryside. As Conservation Manager at Holkham in Norfolk, one of the country's largest historic country estates, his radical habitat restoration and agricultural work has nurtured its species and risen its crop yields - bringing back wetlands, hedgerows, birds and butterflies over 25,000 acres of land.But this isn't rewilding - there is no 'wild' in Britain anymore. Mass farming, crop science and industrial chemicals have destroyed the majority of our natural landscape and wildlife over the last century. Land Healer is the story of Fiennes's ambition to bring back our flora and fauna - by reclaiming our traditions and trialling new experiments which could restore our symbiosis with our land, and save our shared future.Following the farming year and the natural cycle of the seasons, Land Healer chronicles a life of conservation lived at the edges, and is a manifesto for rethinking our relationship with the natural world before it's too late.Trade ReviewJake Fiennes is changing the face of farming in Britain ... A revolutionising force -- Isabella TreeWith mud on his boots and hope in his heart, Fiennes tells a powerful and uplifting story of food, farming and living with nature -- Matthew ParrisWe can only solve the crises of climate, extinction and human ill-health by healing our relationship with the land. Jake Fiennes shows us how in this inspiring, realistic and practical book -- Patrick BarkhamA powerful call to arms, this fascinating book makes a clear case to put farming at the heart of the restoration of our countryside -- Sarah Langford, author of RootedOne of the motive forces behind this new way of looking at the land -- Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England

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Book SynopsisThe erosion of biodiversity is currently highly publicized. Militant movements accuse humans of destroying nature and being responsible for a sixth mass extinction. However, this anxiety-provoking message is sometimes based on misconceptions, false or partisan ideas, and media relays that favor and amplify alarmist information. If the situation of certain populations is worrying, it is not a general phenomenon because others are expanding. Rather than holding a globalizing discourse, it is necessary to recontextualize and relativize the debate to better define the necessary actions.Biodiversity Erosion analyzes numerous scientific publications, as well as alarming discussions, emphasizing the multiple biases present in the way information is presented. This book questions the relevance of the notion of species and the desire to compile an inventory of all living things. It argues for a less Manichean approach to our relationship with nature.Table of ContentsIntroduction xi Chapter 1 The Gradual Decline of Biodiversity: What Do We Mean? 1 1.1 The context of the debate 2 1.2 “Biodiversity”? A vague concept 3 1.3 The origins of a concept: creationist thinking 4 1.4 Decline: clarifying the meaning of the words 6 1.5 Are the indicators reliable? 8 1.6 Protecting what? 10 1.7 The evolution of the concept of decline: from a structural to a functional approach 11 1.8 Communication or misinformation? 13 1.9 At the roots of the sixth extinction 14 Chapter 2 The Promethean Dream: Taking Stock of Biodiversity 17 2.1 The notion of species is misleading! 17 2.2 Hidden biodiversity: cryptic or twin species 20 2.3 Species at the service of genes? 21 2.4 Species inventory: what do we know? 22 2.5 The geographical distribution of biological diversity 23 2.6 In summary 25 Chapter 3 What Can We Learn from the Great Extinctions of the Past? 27 3.1 A hundred times over, put your work back together 27 3.2 The great mass extinctions 28 3.3 The tree that hides the forest 31 3.4 Evolutionary consequences of extinctions 33 3.5 What is known about the post-extinction processes of the past? 35 3.6 In summary 35 Chapter 4 Biodiversity Decline: “The Worst Is Not Certain” 37 4.1 When scientists cross the yellow line! 37 4.2 The risk of extinction 40 4.2.1 Endemic species 40 4.2.2 Specialist species 42 4.2.3 Ubiquitous or opportunistic species 42 4.3 Vulnerability of species to risks 42 4.4 Species extinctions in the plant world 44 4.5 What do we know about species extinctions in animals? 46 4.6 Species extinctions in France 47 4.7 The false trails of globalization: contextualizing erosion! 51 4.8 In summary 53 Chapter 5 Let’s Talk about the Renewal Rate of Biological Diversity 55 5.1 Extinction debt and speciation credit 55 5.2 Speciation processes 57 5.3 The speed of appearance of new species 58 5.4 Is speciation more important in tropical environments? 62 5.5 Evolution and the role of chance 63 5.6 Is habitat fragmentation a threat to biodiversity? 64 5.7 In summary 66 Chapter 6 Controversies Surrounding the Extinction Rate 67 6.1 The laborious calculation of the extinction rate 68 6.2 The area/species relationship: a highly criticized prospective tool! 71 6.3 Text commentary on the extinction rate of species according to the Sagascience website 74 6.4 A debate confused by ideological concerns 76 6.5 In summary 78 Chapter 7 The Hidden Face of Methods for Assessing Biodiversity Decline 81 7.1 Who can be trusted to analyze the data? 82 7.2 Questions about the “species” metric 83 7.3 Amalgamation and false leads 84 7.4 Contingency and the problem of changes in scale: global versus local 85 7.5 Losers, but also winners? 86 7.6 Manipulating figures: communication or hijacking? 88 7.7 The health sector taken hostage 89 Chapter 8 Biodiversity and the Functioning of Ecosystems: A Multitude of Preconceived Ideas 91 8.1 The black box of ecological functioning 91 8.2 The balance of nature is fiction 92 8.3 Disruption does not mean disaster 94 8.4 Are all species needed? 95 8.5 Deterministic or stochastic ecological systems? 96 8.6 The more species there are, the more resilient the ecological system is 97 8.7 The threshold effect or the fall of a paradigm! 98 8.8 Species substitutions and the functioning of ecological systems 99 8.9 In summary 100 Chapter 9 Species Introductions: For Better or For Worse 101 9.1 The delicate issue of indigenousness 102 9.2 Species introductions: one of the main causes of biodiversity loss? 104 9.3 Species introductions and ecosystem functioning 106 9.4 Why are our trees sick? 107 9.5 Can introductions be controlled? 109 9.5.1 The case of climate migrants 110 9.5.2 Stowaways 110 9.5.3 Voluntary or accidental introductions 111 9.5.4 Lack of courtesy 112 9.6 Being pragmatic? 112 9.7 Strongly divergent opinions among scientists 114 9.8 In summary 115 Chapter 10 Global Warming: A Catastrophe for Biodiversity? 117 10.1 Climate uncertainties 119 10.2 The lessons of retrospective ecology 121 10.3 Likely consequences of reduced precipitation 123 10.4 Likely impacts of temperature increase on biodiversity 123 10.5 Rising sea levels 125 10.6 Undergoing or going along with change? 126 10.7 In summary 127 Chapter 11 Is Planning Destroying Biodiversity? 129 11.1 European nature: a reconstructed nature 130 11.2 “Degraded” ecological systems… really? 131 11.3 When you transform, you lose and you win… 132 11.4 Paradox: destroying biodiversity under the pretext of naturalness 134 11.5 A brief saga of French forests 136 11.6 In summary 139 Chapter 12 The Decline of Insects 141 12.1 The decline of insect populations creates the event 141 12.2 Is the apocalypse coming? 145 12.3 The difficulty of identifying the causes 146 12.4 Speculation on possible causes 147 12.4.1 Light pollution 148 12.4.2 Pesticides 148 12.4.3 Diseases 149 12.4.4 Changes in agricultural practices 150 12.5 What is the impact on agriculture? 150 12.6 The case of bees 151 12.7 The case of butterflies 153 12.8 Some remarks on our relationship with insects 156 12.9 In summary 157 Chapter 13 The Decline of Birds 159 13.1 The red list of threatened species 159 13.2 The decline of bird populations… as early as the 19th century 160 13.3 Monitoring of the STOC program 163 13.4 Focus on the farmland bird guild 164 13.4.1 Different trends for different species 164 13.4.2 Disparities between regions are a cause for concern 166 13.4.3 A general decline across Europe 169 13.5 The habitat trail 173 13.6 Many other causes 175 13.7 The role of reserves 177 13.8 On what basis can we talk about decline? 179 13.9 Let nature take its course? 179 13.10 In summary 182 Chapter 14 Reasons to be Positive 183 14.1 Highly resilient ecological systems 183 14.1.1 Oil spills 184 14.1.2 Fires 184 14.1.3 How long does it take for a tropical forest to regenerate? 186 14.1.4 Pollution of continental aquatic systems 186 14.2 Recovering populations! 187 14.3 Nature conquers the city 191 14.3.1 Reducing pollution 193 14.3.2 “Rewilding” the city? 193 14.4 Rehabilitation of “degraded” systems 194 14.4.1 Water quarries 194 14.4.2 Slag heaps 195 14.5 What is the future for anthropized nature, left to its own devices? 195 14.6 Let’s talk about the wolf 196 14.7 In summary 198 Chapter 15 From Facts to Extrapolations 199 15.1 Many inconsistencies and post-truths 201 15.2 Going beyond ecocentrism: what kinds of nature do we want? 203 15.3 Protected areas and the return of colonialism? 205 15.4 Nature, an inexhaustible source of problems 207 15.5 Single-mindedness and anxiety-provoking communication 208 15.6 The business of biodiversity 209 References 213 Index 235

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