Biodiversity / Ecosystems Books

Book SynopsisFocuses on correlative approaches known as ecological niche modeling, species distribution modeling, or habitat suitability modeling, which use associations between known occurrences of species and environmental variables to identify environmental conditions under which populations can be maintained.Trade Review"[Ecological Niches and Geographic Distributions] would serve as an excellent and authoritative textbook or resource for an upper-level undergraduate or graduate-level class on ecological modeling."--Choice "This book is an impressively well written exposition of the conceptual foundation, practical implementation, and potential applications of niche modeling... Overall, this book is an instant classic and a critical read for anyone interested in this fast-moving field of ecological niche modeling. I have already assigned it as required reading to graduate students in my lab."--Alycia Stigall, Priscum "I found this book very useful. Its theoretical rigor will please those already involved with niche modeling, and its numerous and interesting examples make it accessible to a broad readership."--Ian S. Pearce, Quarterly Review of Biology "Ecological Niches And Geographic Distributions concisely summarizes the conceptual framework and current major issues in a diverse and rapidly expanding literature. The numerous illustrations help to clarify key concepts and case studies, and the writing is clear throughout. Although the book sometimes forgoes depth in favor of clarity, ultimately I feel that this approach is for the best; many of the chapters in Parts 2 and 3 could be expanded to fill entire books of their own, but doing so would necessarily sacrifice much of the 'big picture' that is the focus of this volume. Ecological niches and geographic distributions would be a worthy addition to the library of any investigator using ENM/SDM methods in their research, and would be an excellent resource for students and investigators who are encountering the field for the first time."--Dan L. Warren, Ecology "With a real exploration of key concepts, this book will be an essential guide for students and researchers, providing a theoretical framework with which to support future progress in the field. This book is highly recommended."--Evelyne Bremond-Hoslet, National d'Histoire Naturelle "The seven authors have merged their ideas seamlessly."--Janet Sprent, Bulletin of the British Ecology SocietyTable of Contents*FrontMatter, pg. i*Table of Contents, pg. v*Acknowledgments, pg. ix*Chapter One. Introduction, pg. 1*Chapter Two. Concepts Of Niches, pg. 7*Chapter Three. Niches And Geographic Distributions, pg. 23*Chapter Four. Niches And Distributions In Practice: Overview, pg. 51*Chapter Five. Species' Occurrence Data, pg. 62*Chapter Six. Environmental Data, pg. 82*Chapter Seven. Modeling Ecological Niches, pg. 97*Chapter Eight. From Niches To Distributions, pg. 138*Chapter Nine. Evaluating Model Performance And Signifi Cance, pg. 150*Chapter Ten. Introduction To Applications, pg. 185*Chapter Eleven. Discovering Biodiversity, pg. 189*Chapter Twelve. Conservation Planning And Climate Change Effects, pg. 200*Chapter Thirteen. Species' Invasions, pg. 215*Chapter Fourteen. The Geography Of Disease Transmission, pg. 226*Chapter Fifteen. Linking Niches With Evolutionary Processes, pg. 238*Appendix A. Glossary Of Symbols Used, pg. 261*Appendix B. Set Theory For G- And E-Space, pg. 266*Glossary, pg. 269*Bibliography, pg. 281

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Book SynopsisThis lavishly illustrated book examines the distribution, ecology, conservation status, and biogeography of 176 species of dragonflies in the southern plains of the United States, where twelve ecoregions converge. The topics discussed, such as phenotypic variation and ecology, are applicable and of interest across the United States and much of north America, and will appeal to researchers and dragonfly enthusiasts alike. A series of maps, including a distributional map by specific locality of occurrence, indicate level of documentation and allow the reader to visualize the biogeographical associations of a given species. These maps also encourage citizen scientists to contribute documentation wherever they spend time in the field. Context-driven chapters, including one on the regionâs rich paleontological history, blend environmental history and biogeography, giving the book a fresh perspective on the natural world while providing a rich summary of the odonates.Dragonflies at a Biographical Crossroads: The Odonata of Oklahoma and Complexities Beyond Its Borders will be sought out by dragonfly researchers and enthusiasts, entomologists, amateur naturalists, paleontologists, conservation biologists, educators, regional historians, and those seeking to meld the disciplines of cultural and environmental history with biology. It will also be readily accessible to the lay public. Dragonflies combine the visually stunning with acrobatic fireworks in ways no other insect can hope to combine.Trade ReviewThis book provides a comprehensive review of the occurrence, abundance, conservation status, temporal trends, and some ecological information about odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) in Oklahoma. It is a new contribution to Odonatology and I learned a lot from it. The book represents the most complete collection of information about odonates in Oklahoma, with some intriguing patterns mentioned in the species accounts that will hopefully spur more research into this fascinating, beautiful, and important group of animals.-- Nancy E. McIntyre, Professor & Associate Department Chair, Landscape & Community Ecology, Texas Tech University, USADragonflies at a Biogeographical Crossroads demonstrates how these extraordinary insects can reveal for us the riches of the physical landscape and the human experience. Far more than a scholarly work about dragonflies, and covering terrain and ideas beyond Oklahoma, this is an almanac of history, ecology and conservation from a state too long dismissed as flat and dusty. Among its dragonflies, you will discover the vast biological diversity of Oklahoma and the state’s rightful place in the geography of America. Let this volume set a high standard for insect discovery in other states and regions.-- Bryan Pfeiffer, President of the Dragonfly Society of the Americas, 2018-21This book is a fantastic contribution to the field. Not only does it present a great array of new information, it even presents new ways to present the information. I have never seen a book about the flora or fauna of a state that has as much information as this book contains. I paged through it in awe of the scholarship, thoroughness and even imagination expressed in the pages. The occurrence maps are fantastic, better than any I have ever seen, as they combine specimens, photos and sight records in an easily understandable way. The historical aspect of the county maps and all the history related in the text is also unique to this book. As well, it often deals with taxonomic and other questions that far exceed the borders of the state. So many things about this book are unique! Conservation becomes a more and more important feature of our writing about odonates and other organisms, and this book treats that thoroughly. Finally, we need much more published about the natural history of odonates, and the species accounts in this book contain much of interest in that regard.-- Dennis R. Paulson, Director Emeritus, Slater Museum of Natural History, USABrenda Smith and Michael Patten have succeeded admirably in completing the most thorough treatment of Dragonflies and Damselflies of any state I have seen. This treatise on the Oklahoma fauna includes a series of rich and interesting introductory chapters followed by detailed accounts of each species in the state. This is an impressive compilation and analysis of an especially diverse state that will be useful to anyone wanting to explore dragonflies and damselflies in Oklahoma.-- John C. Abbott, Ph.D., Chief Curator & Director of Museum Research and Collections, University of Alabama Museums, The University of Alabama, USA Dragonflies at a Biogeographical Crossroads is a truly unique and engaging book, absolutely indispensable if you are interested in the odonates of Oklahoma but also of great interest to any student or lover of this amazing group of creatures. One of the themes of the book is "beyond," and it certainly exceeds even lofty expectations in that regard: it is beyond a field guide, beyond just Oklahoma, and beyond just a book about dragonflies (here the title is a little misleading as it includes damselflies as well). The chapter on the ancestors of Oklahoma odonata is simply the most complete history on this group I have read, and the other introductory chapters are equally riveting. The species accounts are like complete research papers for each and every species, with life histories, seasonality and incredible range data, packed with more information than is available almost anywhere else. The treatise on Macromia field identification alone makes buying this book worthwhile! This is a book that will, and should, find its way onto the shelf and into the lap of everyone who is interested in this fascinating group of insects.-- Giff Beaton, naturalist and author, USAThis book provides a comprehensive review of the occurrence, abundance, conservation status, temporal trends, and some ecological information about odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) in Oklahoma. It is a new contribution to Odonatology and I learned a lot from it. The book represents the most complete collection of information about odonates in Oklahoma, with some intriguing patterns mentioned in the species accounts that will hopefully spur more research into this fascinating, beautiful, and important group of animals.-- Nancy E. McIntyre, Professor & Associate Department Chair, Landscape & Community Ecology, Texas Tech University, USADragonflies at a Biogeographical Crossroads demonstrates how these extraordinary insects can reveal for us the riches of the physical landscape and the human experience. Far more than a scholarly work about dragonflies, and covering terrain and ideas beyond Oklahoma, this is an almanac of history, ecology and conservation from a state too long dismissed as flat and dusty. Among its dragonflies, you will discover the vast biological diversity of Oklahoma and the state’s rightful place in the geography of America. Let this volume set a high standard for insect discovery in other states and regions.-- Bryan Pfeiffer, President of the Dragonfly Society of the Americas, 2018-21This book is a fantastic contribution to the field. Not only does it present a great array of new information, it even presents new ways to present the information. I have never seen a book about the flora or fauna of a state that has as much information as this book contains. I paged through it in awe of the scholarship, thoroughness and even imagination expressed in the pages. The occurrence maps are fantastic, better than any I have ever seen, as they combine specimens, photos and sight records in an easily understandable way. The historical aspect of the county maps and all the history related in the text is also unique to this book. As well, it often deals with taxonomic and other questions that far exceed the borders of the state. So many things about this book are unique! Conservation becomes a more and more important feature of our writing about odonates and other organisms, and this book treats that thoroughly. Finally, we need much more published about the natural history of odonates, and the species accounts in this book contain much of interest in that regard.-- Dennis R. Paulson, Director Emeritus, Slater Museum of Natural History, USABrenda Smith and Michael Patten have succeeded admirably in completing the most thorough treatment of Dragonflies and Damselflies of any state I have seen. This treatise on the Oklahoma fauna includes a series of rich and interesting introductory chapters followed by detailed accounts of each species in the state. This is an impressive compilation and analysis of an especially diverse state that will be useful to anyone wanting to explore dragonflies and damselflies in Oklahoma.-- John C. Abbott, Ph.D., Chief Curator & Director of Museum Research and Collections, University of Alabama Museums, The University of Alabama, USA Dragonflies at a Biogeographical Crossroads is a truly unique and engaging book, absolutely indispensable if you are interested in the odonates of Oklahoma but also of great interest to any student or lover of this amazing group of creatures. One of the themes of the book is "beyond," and it certainly exceeds even lofty expectations in that regard: it is beyond a field guide, beyond just Oklahoma, and beyond just a book about dragonflies (here the title is a little misleading as it includes damselflies as well). The chapter on the ancestors of Oklahoma odonata is simply the most complete history on this group I have read, and the other introductory chapters are equally riveting. The species accounts are like complete research papers for each and every species, with life histories, seasonality and incredible range data, packed with more information than is available almost anywhere else. The treatise on Macromia field identification alone makes buying this book worthwhile! This is a book that will, and should, find its way onto the shelf and into the lap of everyone who is interested in this fascinating group of insects.-- Giff Beaton, naturalist and author, USATable of ContentsIntroduction. History of Oklahoma Odonatology. Oklahoma Geography and Habitats. Biogeography of Oklahoma Odonata. The Odonata Fossil History of Oklahoma and the Region. Environmental History of Oklahoma. Conservation of Oklahoma Odonata. Seasonality of Oklahoma Odonata. Introduction to Species Accounts. Species Accounts. Zygoptera – Damselflies. Calopterygidae – Broad-winged Damsels. Lestidae – Spreadwings. Coenagrionidae – Pond Damsels. Anisoptera – Dragonflies. Petaluridae – Petaltails. Aeshnidae – Darners. Gomphidae – Clubtails. Cordulegastridae – Spiketails. Macromiidae – Cruisers. Corduliidae – Emeralds. Libellulidae – Skimmers. Appendices. A. Synonyms, Dubious Records, and Hypothetical Species. B. List of Specimen Collections, Data Sources, and Record Contributors. C. Additional Resources. D. Oklahoma Odonata Species Totals by Era. E. First State Records of Oklahoma Odonata. F. Supplementary Tables. G. Reference Maps. Literature Cited. Endnotes. Index

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Book SynopsisA critique of modern conservation in the face of climate and biodiversity emergencies. It describes the author's journey from nature lover to conservationist

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Book SynopsisAimed at naturalists, professional biologists, and students, this book will serve as a valuable reference for those conducting biodiversity surveys and conservation throughout the world.Trade ReviewContains the latest range and taxonomic information as well as a description of key characteristics that can help distinguish species in the field . . . a useful book in my opinion. And a great format, which . . . is a welcome trend.—Jon Hall, Mammal WatchingAndrew Smith and his colleagues have produced an outstanding book that summarises the current knowledge of the world's 92 species of lagomorphs in one reference volume. Drawing on the expertise of 82 specialists on lagomorphs, this is a truly comprehensive reference work that provides detailed, species-specific information as well as a review of the ecological role of lagomorphs.—The BiologistTable of ContentsPrefaceContributors1. Introduction2. Evolution of Lagomorphs3. Systematics of Lagomorphs4. Introduced Lagomorphs5. Diseases of Lagomorphs6. Conservation of LagomorphsSPECIES ACCOUNTSOrder LagomorphaFamily OchotonidaeFamily LeporidaeThe RabbitsSylvilagusLepusReferencesIndex

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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 SynopsisIan Newton, author of Farming and Birds and Bird Migration returns to the New Naturalist series with a long awaited look at the uplands and its birds.The uplands of Britain are unique landscapes created by grazing animals, primarily livestock. The soils and blanket bogs of the uplands are also the largest stores of carbon in the UK, and 70% of the country's drinking water comes from the uplands. It's a significant region, not least to the multitudes of bird species that hunt, forage and nest there.Once again, Ian Newton demonstrates his mastery of the subject matter at hand, in this beautifully illustrated, authoritative addition to the New Naturalist series.Trade ReviewPraise for Uplands and Birds ‘Everything one would expect from one of the UK’s greatest ornithologists; breadth, depth and clarity … This is a monumental book, and you should read it’ Mark Avery ‘lan Newton gives an in-depth look at all the upland habitats, from bogs to conifer forests, and the wide number of species found in each one. There are numerous colour photos of habitats and birds, with many taken by folk he has met on his travels over his long history of working in this field. Yet another classic in this well-loved series’ Bird Watching magazine Praise for Ian Newton: ‘A masterly and wide-ranging account of the consequences for bird populations of the recent shifts in British farming practices. This book … deserves to be widely read, including, one hopes, by the policy makers of the future.’ BTO News ‘This book is a landmark edition in an already outstanding natural history series, and will make an extremely valuable and treasured addition to the library of anyone serious about birds and their biology.’ Seabirds ‘Truly outstanding – the product of a lifelong inquiry into the annual travels of birds.’ Guardian ‘The New Naturalist series strikes gold with this insight into ultimate avian journeys.’ BBC Wildlife ‘… a work of authority.’ The Daily Telegraph

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Book SynopsisCentring on South Africa''s Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, this book synthesizes a century of insights from the ecology and conservation management of one of Africa''s oldest protected wildlife areas. The park provides important lessons for conservation management, as it has maintained conservation values rivalling those of much larger parks sometimes through, and sometimes despite, strong management interventions, including the rescue of the white rhino from extinction. In addition, the book highlights the ecological science produced in the park, much of which has become widely influential, including the megaherbivore concept, new functional approaches to understanding biomes, and new understandings about the role of consumers in shaping ecosystems. The volume is ideal for researchers and policymakers interested in the conservation of relatively small, isolated and protected areas.Trade Review'… contains a wealth of information on a particularly well-studied area, and the editors and authors are to be complimented in compiling this record. It presents much in the way of useful data, and interpretations of the significance of these data both for the science of ecology and the practice of ecosystem management. It is highly recommended for students, ecological researchers, managers of protected areas, historians, and anyone interested in ecosystem conservation.' Brian W. van Wilgen, African Journal of Range and Forage ScienceTable of ContentsPart I. Setting the Scene: 1. Anthropogenic influences in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park: from early times to recent management Mariska te Beest, Norman Owen-Smith, Roger Porter and Jim Feely; 2. The abiotic template for the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park's landscape heterogeneity Ruth A. Howison, Han Olff, Norman Owen-Smith, Joris P. G. M. Cromsigt and Sally Archibald; 3. Long-term vegetation dynamics within the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park A. Carla Staver, Heath Beckett and Jan Graf; 4. Temporal changes in the large herbivore fauna of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park Elizabeth le Roux, Geoff Clinning, Dave J. Druce, Norman Owen-Smith, Jan A. Graf and Joris P. G. M. Cromsigt; Part II. Theoretical Advances in Savanna Ecology: 5. Megaherbivores, competition and coexistence within the large herbivore guild Norman Owen-Smith, Joris P. G. M. Cromsigt and Randal Arsenault; 6. The functional ecology of grazing lawns - how grazers, termites, people and fire shape HiP's savanna grassland mosaic Joris P. G. M. Cromsigt, Michiel Veldhuis, William Stock, Elizabeth le Roux, Cleo Gosling and Sally Archibald; 7. Demographic bottlenecks and savanna tree abundance William J. Bond, A. Carla Staver, Michael Cramer, Julia Wakeling, Jeremy J. Midgley and Dave Balfour; 8. Woody plant traits and life history strategies across disturbance gradients and biome boundaries in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park Laurence Kruger, Tristan Charles-Dominique, William Bond, Jeremy Midgley, Dave Balfour and Abednig Mkhwanazi; 9. Contributions of smaller fauna to ecological processes and biodiversity Norman Owen-Smith, Cleo Gosling, Nicole Hagenah, Marcus Byrne and Catherine Parr; 10. Interactions between fire and ecosystem processes Sally Archibald, Heath Beckett, William J. Bond, Corli Coetsee, Dave J. Druce and Carla Staver; Part III. Where Science and Conservation Management Meet: 11. Rhino management challenges: spatial and social ecology for habitat and population management Wayne Linklater and Adrian M. Shrader; 12. Reassembly of the large predator guild into Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park Michael J. Somers, Penny Becker, Dave J. Druce, Jan Graf, Micaela Szykman Gunther, David Marneweck, Martina Trinkel, Marcos Moleón and Matt W. Hayward; 13. Wildlife disease dynamics in carnivore and herbivore hosts in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park Anna E. Jolles, Nicki Le Roex, Gabriella Flacke, David Cooper, Claire Geoghegan and Michael J. Somers; 14. Elephant management in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park Dave J. Druce, Heleen Druce, Mariska te Beest, Joris P. G. M. Cromsigt and Susan Janse van Rensburg; 15. Successful control of the invasive shrub Chromolaena odorata in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park Mariska te Beest, Owen Howison, Ruth A. Howison, L. Alexander Dew, Mandisa Mgobozi Poswa, Lihle Dumalisile, Susan J. van Rensburg and Colette Terblanche; 16. Conserving Africa's mega-diversity in the Anthropocene: the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park story Joris P. G. M. Cromsigt, Sally Archibald and Norman Owen-Smith.

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Book SynopsisOver the last decade, molecular studies carried out on the Australasian biota have revealed a new world of organic structure that exists from submicroscopic to continental scale. Furthermore, in studies of global biogeography and evolution, DNA sequencing has shown that many large groups, such as flowering plants, passerine birds and squamates, have their basal components in this area. Using examples ranging from kangaroos and platypuses to kiwis and birds of paradise, the book examines the patterns of distribution and evolution of Australasian biodiversity and explains them with reference to tectonic and climatic change in the region. The surprising results from molecular biogeography demonstrate that an understanding of evolution in Australasia is essential for understanding the development of modern life on Earth. A milestone in the literature on this subject, this book will be a valuable source of reference for students and researchers in biogeography, biodiversity, ecology and conTable of ContentsPreface; Acknowledgements; Abbreviations; 1. The spatial component of evolution; 2. Evolution in time; 3. Global affinities of Australasian groups; 4. Biogeography of Australia; 5. The Tasman-Coral Sea region: a centre of high biodiversity; 6. Distribution in and around the Tasman region; 7. Biogeography of New Zealand; 8. Biogeography of New Caledonia; 9. Biogeography of New Guinea and neighbouring islands; 10. Biogeography of the Philippines; 11. Conclusions; Glossary; References; Index.

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Book SynopsisAgriculture as a social-ecological system embraces many disciplines. This book breaks through the silos of individual disciplines to bring ecologists and economists together to consider agriculture through the lens of resilience. It explores the economic, environmental and social uncertainties that influence the behaviour of agricultural producers and their subsequent farming approach, highlighting the importance of adaptability, innovation and capital reserves in enabling agriculture to persist under climate change and market volatility. The resilience concept and its relation to complexity theory is explained and the characteristics that foster resilience in agricultural systems, including the role of biodiversity and ecosystem services, are explored. The book discusses modelling tools, metrics and approaches for assessing agricultural resilience, highlighting areas where interdisciplinary thinking can enhance the development of resilience. It is suitable for those researching sustaiTrade Review'The 36 contributors from various institutions have produced a valuable text that is a vital reminder of the multifaceted nature of agriculture at a time when a warming world is changing rapidly and the global population is increasing.' A. M. Mannion, The Biologist'It is suitable for both researchers and policymakers, especially those who are genuinely interested in bridging economics and ecology in agriculture.' Lixin Wang, The Quarterly Review of BiologyTable of Contents1. Introducing resilience Sarah M. Gardner and Stephen J. Ramsden; Part I. Biodiversity, Ecosystem Services and Resilience in Agricultural Systems: 2. Complexity and resilience in agriculture Sarah M. Gardner; 3. Biodiversity and agriculture David Tilman; 4. Determining the value of ecosystem services in agriculture Rosemary S. Hails, Rebecca Chaplin-Kramer, Elena Bennett, Brian Robinson, Gretchen Daily, Kate Brauman and Paul West; 5. Resilience in agricultural systems Stephen J. Ramsden and James Gibbons; 6. Building resilience into agricultural pollination using wild pollinators Neal Williams, Rufus Isaacs, Eric Lonsdorf, Rachel Winfree and Taylor Ricketts; 7. Conflicts and challenges to enhancing the resilience of small-scale farmers in developing economies Richard Ewbank; 8. Modern biotechnology and sustainable intensification: chances and limitations Rolf Meyer; 9. Pastoralism, conservation and resilience: causes and consequences of pastoralist household decision-making Katherine Homewood, Marcus Rowcliffe, Jan De Leeuw, Mohamed Y. Said and Aidan Keane; Part II. Integrating Biodiversity and Building Resilience into Agricultural Systems: 10. Delivering sustainability in agriculture: some implications for analysis Ian Hodge; 11. The resilience of agricultural landscapes characterised by land sparing versus land sharing Dave Abson, Kate Sherren and Joern Fischer; 12. Ecological-economic modelling for designing cost-effective incentives to conserve farmland biodiversity Martin Drechsler and Frank Wätzold; 13. Viability analysis as an approach for assessing the resilience of agroecosystems Sophie Martin; 14. Integrating economics and resilience thinking: the context of natural resource management in Australia Michael Harris, Graham Marshall and David Pannell; 15. Integrating biodiversity and ecosystem services into European agricultural policy: a challenge for the common agricultural policy Allan Buckwell; 16. Ecosystem-service based metrics of sustainability as tools for promoting conservation and food security Jonathan R. B. Fisher and Peter Kareiva; 17. Conclusions on agricultural resilience Sarah M. Gardner, Stephen J. Ramsden and Rosemary S. Hails.

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Book SynopsisMountains support high biodiversity including 12% of birds globally many of them endemic or threatened. Written for ecologists, naturalists, and those interested in wildlife conservation, this unique book provides the first global ecological review of birds in high mountains, their key threats, and guidelines to ensure their continued persistence.Table of Contents1. Mountain birds and their habitats Dan Chamberlain, Aleksi Lehikoinen, Davide Scridel and Kathy Martin; 2. Avian adaptations to high mountain habitats: solving the challenges of living in alpine ecosystems Kathy Martin, Devin R. de Zwaan, Davide Scridel and Tomás A. Altamirano; 3. Global bird communities of alpine and nival habitats Devin R. de Zwaan, Arnaud G. Barras, Tomás A. Altamirano, Addisu Asefa, Pranav Gokhale, R. Suresh Kumar, Shaobin Li, Ruey-shing Lin, C. Steven Sevillano-Ríos, Kerry A. Weston and Davide Scridel; 4. Birds of treeline ecotones Dan Chamberlain, Evgeniya Melikhova, Susanne Jähnig and C. Steven Sevillano-Ríos; 5. Population trends of mountain birds in Europe and North America Aleksi Lehikoinen, Åke Lindström, John Calladine, Tommaso Campedelli, William V. DeLuca, Virginia Escandell, Jiří Flousek, Sergi Herrando, Frédéric Jiguet, John Atle Kålås, Romain Lorrilliere, Timothy D. Meehan, Ingar Jostein Øien, Clara Pladevall, Brett K. Sandercock, Thomas Sattler, Benjamin Seaman, Laura Silva, Hans Schmid, Norbert Teufelbauer and Sven Trautmann; 6. Climate change impacts on mountain birds James W. Pearce-Higgins and Kathy Martin; 7. Anthropogenic activities and mountain birds Enrico Caprio, Antonio Rolando, Raphaël Arlettaz and Dan Chamberlain; 8. Modelling large-scale patterns in mountain bird diversity and distributions Mattia Brambilla, Matthew G. Betts, Ute Bradter, Hankyu Kim, Paola Laiolo and Thomas Sattler; 9. The alpine avifauna of tropical mountains Jon Fjeldså, Jesper Sonne and Carsten Rahbek; 10. Priorities for information, research and conservation of birds in high mountains Kathy Martin, Dan Chamberlain and Aleksi Lehikoinen; Bird species index; Subject index.

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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 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 SynopsisThe international botanical community recognizes that plants create the ecological habitat for all terrestrial organisms. This title compiles the knowledge on various aspects of biodiversity.

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Book SynopsisOver-exploitation of resources of commercial value, changes in land use and land cover, and fragmentation of habitats, have led to extreme decline in biodiversity. This book offers an insight into the concept of biodiversity, its value and uses, aspects of conservation of material and traditional knowledge.

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Book SynopsisThe book "Biodiversity, Community, and Climate Change" emphasizes biodiversity conservation, climate change, and community engagement. It discusses biodiversity assessment tools, allelopathic compounds' impacts, geospatial monitoring of urban ecosystems, community forestry, and participatory conservation methods.

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Book SynopsisSustainability of agricultural growth crucial for food security. Agricultural biodiversity essential for food, income, materials, breeding new varieties, and soil fertility. Erosion of biodiversity in agro-ecosystems causing economic losses, jeopardizing productivity, and food security.

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Book SynopsisThis path-breaking study open the way for a better understanding of the environmental conflict, showing how language can be seen to shape our view of what environmental politics is really about and how those perceptions can differ between countries. The book identifies the emergence and increasing political importance of ''ecological modernization'' as a new concept in the language of environmental politics. This concept, which has come to replace the antagonistic debates of the 1970s, stresses the opportunities of environmental policy for modernizing the economy and stimulating the technological innovation. Combining abstract social theory with detailed empirical analysis, the author illustrates the social and political dynamics of ecological modernization in a detailed analysis of the acid rain controversies in Great Britain and the Netherlands. The book concludes by reflecting on the institutional challenge of the environmental politics in the years to come.Trade ReviewHajer establishes once and for all the importance of attending to the discourse dimension of public policy, and in this respect his is a truly pathbreaking work. * Policy Sciences *This superb book is one of the few successful attempts to apply contemporary sociological thinking to a detailed empirical case-study in the environmental sphere in a way which is genuinely enlightening for policy-makers as well as for academic social science disciplines ... Such challenging questions are a fitting conclusion to an excellent book. * Global Environmental Change *Maarten Hajer has delivered a book that is remarkable for its comprehensiveness and its incisiveness ... this volume establishes a firm foundation for the study of ecological modernisation and serious scholars of environmental policy will derive immense benefit from the author's astute insights. * Environmental Values *this is an important book which will interest many political scientists apart from those focusing on the environment ... There are excellent summary tables and a model of an index. For environment specialists, there are fresh insights on issues such as risk; the role of scientists and scientific data; and the emergence - with its institutional repercussions - of ecological modernization as the dominent way of conceptualizing environmental problems. The way he draws from German and Dutch primary and secondary sources is especially valuable. * Stephen C. Young, University of Manchester, Political Studies *

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Book SynopsisDr Hajer''s path-breaking study opens the way for a better understanding of the environmental conflict, showing how language can be seen to shape our view of what environmental politics is really about and how those perceptions can differ between countries. The author identifies the emergence and increasing political importance of ''ecological modernization'' as a new concept in the language of environmental politics. This concept, which has come to replace the antagonistic debates of the 1970s, stresses the opportunities of environmental policy for modernizing the economy and stimulating the technological innovation. Combining abstract social theory with detailed empirical analysis, Martin Hajer illustrates the social and political dynamics of ecological modernization in a detailed analysis of the acid rain controversies in Great Britain and the Netherlands. He concludes by reflecting on the institutional challenge of the environmental politics in the years to come.Trade Reviewthis is an important book which will interest many political scientists apart from those focusing on the environment ... There are excellent summary tables and a model of an index. For environment specialists, there are fresh insights on issues such as risk; the role of scientists and scientific data; and the emergence - with its institutional repercussions - of ecological modernization as the dominent way of conceptualizing environmental problems. The way he draws from German and Dutch primary and secondary sources is especially valuable. * Stephen C. Young, University of Manchester, Political Studies *This superb book is one of the few successful attempts to apply contemporary sociological thinking to a detailed empirical case-study in the environmental sphere in a way which is genuinely enlightening for policy makers as well as for academic scoial science disciplines ... an excellent book * Simon Shackley, Global Environmental Change, vol.7 no.2 1997 *Table of ContentsIntroduction ; 1. The New Environmental Conflict ; 2. Discourse Analysis ; 3. The Historical Roots of Ecological Modernization ; 4. Accumulating Knowledge, Accumulating Pollution? Ecological Modernization in the United Kingdom ; 5. The Micro-Powers of Apocalypse: Ecological Modernization in the Netherlands ; 6. Ecological Modernization: Discourse and Institutional Change

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Book SynopsisWidely regarded as the most captivating, accessible and comprehensive text for undergraduate marine biology courses, Marine Biology examines the subject from a unique global and evolutionary perspective.

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Book SynopsisBiological diversity is considered one of the most urgent environmental concerns. This book explores the historical roots of biological diversity, tracing the evolution of the term as well as the history of the conservation traditions that contributed to its rapid acceptance and popularity.Trade Review“In examining an idea that is now driving conservation worldwide, Tim Farnham gets the story right in a way that no one else has. His book is richly detailed, yet catches the large themes beautifully.”—Elliott Norse, president, Marine Conservation Biology Institute -- Elliott Norse"This book contributes something unique to the literature of what might be called the history and philosophy of conservation. It treats the term and concept of biodiversity itself as its subject and provides an analytic and historical study of it."—J. Baird Callicott, University of North Texas -- J. Baird Callicott

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