Biodiversity / Ecosystems Books

Book SynopsisCarrifran Wildwood was the brainchild of local people who mourned the lack of natural habitats and decided to act. When Borders Forest Trust was founded the Wildwood became the Trust's first large land-based project, and after 20 years of work it has become an inspirational example of ecological restoration. Removal of sheep and goats and planting 700,000 trees launched the return of native woodland and moorland, transforming degraded hill land into something akin to its pristine, vibrant, carbon-absorbing state, teeming with plants, animals and fungi, alive with birdsong and the sound of the wind in the trees. The 40 contributors vividly describe all the challenges of carrying forward bold initiatives requiring close cooperation with local communities as well as funders, authorities, landowners and partners. A core part of the book is devoted to how nature asserts itself when given a chance. It includes 'before and after' surveys, describes vegetation changes - some of them unpredicted - following removal of sheep, cattle and feral goats; unique documentation of the dramatic changes in bird populations during the 20-year transformation of Carrifran valley from denuded land to a restored mosaic of woodland and moorland habitats; discussion of the gradual development of a diverse range of invertebrate animals; and descriptions of the rich communities of fungi and mosses, many of them newly-recorded in the area. The book concludes with discussion of the role of restoration ecology in addressing the biodiversity crisis and climate change. This is the extraordinary story of how a group of motivated people can revive nature at a landscape scale.Trade Review‘...is also a celebration of volunteering in the best sense of the word. ...is a book full of good science, good advice and very human endeavours by some exceptional people who will leave a rich legacy for the eco-savvy generations... Read, enjoy and be inspired!’. Reforesting Scotland; '…a comprehensive piece of work… to see the data and before and after pictures shows what a remarkable achievement this has been… This is an essential, heart-warming and positive read'. British Naturalists Association; 'It should be called ‘Inspirational’, because reading it just fills you with fire... A must-read for all birders'. Bird Watching Magazine; '…this fascinating and enlightening book… ...a celebration of what has been achieved...' Undiscovered Scotland; ‘…this celebration of the astonishing levels of ecological restoration that have stemmed from two decades of concerted effort across a once barren valley in the Scottish Borders’. John Muir Trust Journal; ’this is a book to uplift the spirit and inspire action to counter some of the gloom... there is much to learn from this book, particularly for anyone inspired to take action of a similar vein. As an example of community working, as well as how to facilitate the natural development of a landscape it is truly an exemplar and an inspiration'. The Niche, British Ecological Society; '...this celebration of the astonishing levels of ecological restoration that have stemmed from two decades of concerted effort across a once barren valley in the Scottish Borders ... is a mightily deserved celebration of those 20 years of effort in this valley and the astonishing results, that giving nature a respite from centuries of exploitation, can produce. But it is so much more than that'. Mike Daniels, John Muir Trust Journal; '...is a veritable cornucopia of ideas and practical management, with developmental ideas and concepts for us both now and in the future, its scope is colossal... It is an easy and stimulating read. It deserves to be re-read since it is so full of factual material and ideas'. Scottish Forestry; ...is the story of the first two decades of one of the most impressive landscape restorations of the early decades of the 21st century... an inspiration to everyone who longs to see the deserted hillsides of Britain restored to natural habitats that foster wildlife and offer a solution to the increasing problems of climate change'. Peebles Life

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Book SynopsisIt is vital that we adopt interdisciplinary approaches such as ecological economics to gain an understanding of the values that determine human interaction with, and use and abuse of, the environment. This book is a model of applied ecological economics. It presents an accessible introduction to the subject while at the same time broadening its theoretical basis by introducing a post-positivist, participatory method. The theoretical framework is applied to case studies in biodiversity conservation, drawn from around the world and a range of different ecosystems. The book is a suitable textbook for students of ecological economics and an ideal introduction for scientists and environmentalists needing to understand the role of economics in ecology and conservation.Trade Review'This text is well referenced and especially in the first part, it is advanced in its levels of analysis, ideas, and vocabulary...well worth reading.' Patrick W. Colgan, Biodiversity, Journal of Life on Earth, 2001.Table of ContentsPart I: Methodology, Paradigms, Ethics and Participation - Introduction and Background * Scientific Methodology * Paradigms and Environmental Decision-making * Economics, Intergenerational Equity and Biodiversity Conservation * Economics, Land Use Planning and Participation * Part II: Case Studies - Conflict and Agreement in Australian Forests * Marine Conservation Through Collaboration and Partnership: Recent Australian Experiences * Biodiversity Conservation in Indonesia: Policy and Politics * From Top-down to Participatory Planning: Conservation Lessons from the Adirondack Park, United States * Policy, Institutions, Values and Biodiversity Conservation in Vanuatu * Negotiating Agendas in Biodiversity Conservation: The India Ecodevelopment Project, Karnataka * Conflict Management in community-based Natural Resource Projects: Experiences from the Lakekamu Basin Integrated Conservation and Development Project, Papua New Guinea * References * Index

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Book SynopsisIn recent years there has been an explosion of interest in organic and biodynamic produce. Although once marginal and 'alternative', escalating concerns about the environment, health, food quality and animal welfare have brought organics into mainstream consciousness. Biodynamics, a unique development of the organic approach, does not narrowly focus on agricultural techniques. It was conceived as a new way of thinking about farming, nutrition and the world of nature, allowing for a revitalized relationship with the living soil, the elemental world and the cosmos. Originating from a series of eight lectures given by Dr Rudolf Steiner in 1924, biodynamics broadens the outlook of agriculture and the science behind it, leading to a holistic perspective that incorporates astronomical rhythms and unique preparations for plants and earth. The author describes the foundations on which not only biodynamics but also the wider organic movement is based. He builds bridges between mainstream science and Steiner's insights, making it easier for the wider organic and ecological movement to approach biodynamic concepts and practise. This book has much to offer to the beginner as well as to those already involved with biodynamics. Its broad range of topics - including the ecology of the farm organism, food quality and nutrition, community supported agriculture, planetary influences, seed quality, and the vitality of water - contribute to a deeper understanding of the subject. The author is also concerned to promote innovation so that biodynamics moves with the times. An appendix includes details for contacting various elements of the biodynamic world.

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Book SynopsisThe Mantadia-Zahamena corridor of Madagascar contains some of the country's last remaining low- and mid-elevation rainforests. This French-language volume presents the results of an expedition to survey the biodiversity of the region, during which three sites of high biological importance were identified based on species richness, abundance, and disturbance. Given the paramount significance of Madagascar in global conservation efforts and the high value of Mantadia-Zahamena in particular, the researchers conclude that these three sites deserve immediate conservation action. This report also documents the discovery of new species of frogs and reptiles and sixteen new species of ants.

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Book SynopsisAlaska in the early 1950s was one of the world's last great undeveloped areas. Yet sweeping changes were underway. In l958 Congress awarded the new state over 100 million acres to promote economic development. In 1971, it gave Native groups more than 40 million acres to settle land claims and facilitate the building of an 800-mile oil pipeline. Spurred by the newly militant environmental movement, it also began to consider the preservation of Alaska's magnificent scenery and wildlife. Northern Landscapes is an essential guide to Alaska's recent past and to contemporary local and national debates over the future of public lands and resources. It is the first comprehensive examination of the campaign to preserve wild Alaska through the creation of a vast system of parks and wildlife refuges. Drawing on archival sources and interviews, Daniel Nelson traces disputes over resources alongside the politics of the Alaska statehood movement. He provides in-depth coverage of the growth of Alaskan environmental organizations, their partnerships with national groups, and their participation in political campaigns into the 1970s and after. Engagingly written, Northern Landscapes focuses on efforts to persuade public officials to recognize the value of Alaska's mountains, forests, and wildlife. That activity culminated in the passage of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) of 1980, which set aside more than 100 million acres, doubling the size of the national park and wildlife refuge systems, and tripling the size of the wilderness preservation system. Arguably the single greatest triumph of environmentalism, ANILCA also set the stage for continuing battles over the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and Alaska's national forests.Trade Review'This detailed description of the conservation history of our 49th state provides valuable context and background. . . .Offers direct, often terse narrative that brings us right into the action and lets us share the often agonizing suspense.' Alaska Report, Sierra ClubTable of ContentsAcknowledgments Prologue: Washington, December 1980 Part I. Seedtime: Alaska to the 1960s 1. The Emergence of Alaska 2. Conservation in Transition Part II. Wilderness Politics: Alaska, 1960s-1976 3. Alaska Upheavals 4. Congressional Responses 5. Southeast Alaska and the Wilderness Movement 6. Oil Age Discontents Part III. The ANILCA Campaign: Alaska and Washington, 1977-1980 7. Congress Deliberates 8. Birth of ANILCA Postscript: Alaska in the 1980s and Beyond Notes Index

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive and user-friendly photographic identification guide to all of the species, sexes and forms of British and Irish dragon- and damselflies, with essential field notes and habitat photographs to aid finding each species.

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Book SynopsisThe natural world is full of awesome surprises, and the animal kingdom is no exception. As The Secret Lives of Animals reveals, it seems that the more we discover about the unusual species that populate our planet, the more we understand just how ingenious, resourceful and downright creative they can be!Did you know that red pandas are not only incredibly cute, but also master escape artists able to flee their enclosures in high security zoos all over the world with alarming frequency? Or that beautiful manta rays have not only been observed recognizing their own reflection in mirrors, but are also able to identify friendly divers and ask for their help when they’re in a bit of a jam? Or that elephants, as well as having famously impressive memories, are also sophisticated communicators who send signals to each other using a wide range of body language? Or that parrots, as well as being amazing mimics, are able to learn dance moves? YouTube star Snowball, the dancing cockatoo, has a very entertaining fourteen-move repertoire.With charming and humorous illustrations from BAFTA-award-winning artist Greg McLeod (half of The Brothers McLeod), The Secret Lives of Animals is a window into some of the most complex and impressive minds of the animal kingdom, revealing the little-known skills and natural intuition that have allowed them to survive – and often have a little fun along the way.

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Book SynopsisPermaculture needs all of us, and all of us need permaculture.Permaculture is a way of farming, gardening, or managing land for sustainable food that emphasizes a reciprocal relationship with nature. It?s also a way of living that has countless benefits for both individual and collective well-being and is an essential tool in the fight of our lives: tackling the climate crisis.Incorporating such concepts and practices as rewilding and community resilience, permaculture is an approach with core principles that center collectivism and stewardship. From these principles, we can take key lessons about how we interact with nature and with others in all areas of life.Exploring the history of permaculture, how it exists today, and combining practical prompts with personal stories, this book is written with expertise, yet is accessible and enjoyable for beginners and the experienced alike.Whether you?re completely new to permaculture, or you?re someone with experience who wants to reconnect and learn more about its history and principles, this book will contain valuable lessons for growth far beyond the garden.

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Book SynopsisEmblem is the debut collection from Lucy Mercer, winner of the inaugural White Review Poet's Prize. This is a book of ecological poetics, interested in exploring the changing symbols of the natural world in literature. Emblem revitalises this forgotten hybrid form in the present as a frame to contemplate the obscurities of motherhood, faith and the interior. In ghostly conversation with the sixteenth-century emblematist Andrea Alciato – a witness to a lonely time – the poems are carried forward by a non-linear dream logic of metaphor and similitude, speaking pictures who remain silent and a focus on an adjacent imaginal world. As well as reusing images from Alciato's emblem book, the poems fixate on alternating relations between text and image that blur into relations between mind and body, child and mother, red and green, past and present, public and private, the living and the dead.

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Book SynopsisLiberia's national forests are among the last refuges in West Africa for large migrating mammals. This volume summarizes the findings of a biodiversity survey of three forests as part of the Liberia Forestry Initiative, an effort to rehabilitate and reform Liberia's threatened woodlands. The survey found each forest to harbor a wealth of biodiversity and a significant number of species of conservation concern. Researchers here document the discovery of six species new to science, report eighteen new findings for Liberia, and present conservation recommendations based on survey results.

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Book SynopsisThis report contains the findings from a rapid biological assessment of the Grensgebergte and Kasikasima mountains of southeastern Suriname. Suriname is one of the last places on Earth where an opportunity still exists to conserve huge tracts of pristine, diverse tropical forests. This volume is part of a series of surveys in Suriname designed to support the protection of biodiversity and freshwater and other ecosystem services through collection of baseline biological and socioeconomic data. The researchers in southeastern Suriname investigated plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fishes, insects, and water quality. Over one hundred new species were discovered, including fish, beetles, and katydids.

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Book SynopsisOf all birdgroups, none is more closely associated with the world's tropical forests than trogons and quetzals. With shimmering golden-green feathers and long ornamental tail coverts, Central America's resplendent quetzal often has been called the world's most beautiful bird. Other New World as well as African trogonids also are iridescent and brightly pigmented, while red or reddish brown hues predominate in Asian species. Since deforestation and fires have ravaged many of the reclusive group's prime habitats, ornithologists and conservationists may soon be unable to study many of the world's trogonids in their native environments. Beautifully illustrated with color plates and line drawings, this comprehensive review of trogons and quetzals -- the first to be published in more than 150 years -- covers all thirty-nine extant species. The book includes detailed species accounts, range maps, and identification keys as well as a chapter that discusses comparative biology in terms of evolution, anatomy and morphology, behavior, ecology, breeding biology, and populations. Forty hand-colored plates -- most by the renowned nineteenth-century illustrator John Gould -- depict adults of both sexes; nineteen line drawings by author Paul Johnsgard illustrate behavior and anatomy. The book also includes more than three hundred bibliographic references. Despite their beauty and renown among birders, little has been previously published about the biology of many trogon and quetzal species. This up-to-date survey will serve as a valuable reference for ornithologists, conservationists, aviculturalists, and birdwatchers worldwide.

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Book SynopsisMadagascar, with its unique and highly endemic flora and fauna, is a world conservation priority. Although the number of bird species occurring on the island is less diverse than that of most other tropical countries, the level of endemism is remarkable and includes five endemic families and two subfamilies. This pocket-sized book, written in non-technical French and beautifully illustrated throughout, provides a general introduction to Malagasy birds as well as a detailed and up-to-date synthesis of information related to the ecology and natural history of all of Madagascar’s unique bird families and subfamilies. Birdwatchers and researchers are almost unanimously enchanted by the extraordinary natural history and morphological characteristics of the island’s avifauna, and as such, birds are among the most studied vertebrate groups on Madagascar. However, certain aspects of how these birds live have only recently been discovered, and this book will be an informative resource for even the most seasoned of birdwatchers.

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Book SynopsisWhile the current biodiversity of Madagascar is the subject of international attention from both evolutionary biologists and conservationists, no in-depth synthesis exists to describe ecological changes on the island during the Holocene and, most importantly, during the periods before and after human colonization. This concise, French-language book provides the first such explication of those alterations. Drawing on various aspects of the morphology and extrapolated habitat use of extinct animals identified from paleontological and archaeological sites, as well as characteristics of extant species, Steven M. Goodman and William L. Jungers reconstruct these organisms’ natural history and the ecosystems in which they lived. These windows into the past are presented in twenty different vignettes beautifully illustrated with plates from Velizar Simeonovski.

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Book SynopsisWritten with passion for anyone interested in seeing an end to the illegal trade in elephant ivory and rhino horn, this book shows how, by working together, people all over the world who care about these animals are gradually bringing about change for the better. It takes an overview of how the current situation came to pass by exploring poaching and its devastating consequences and the pivotal role of organized crime. The discussion of how matters are starting to improve covers the investigation and monitoring of ivory markets, sustainable uses and the key role of local communities.Enforcement of the law is vital in this story. Enter the enforcers, the technology they use to defeat the poachers and the evidence they require to prosecute offenders. Cases, some deeply shocking, are included, as well as a number of fascinating case studies, while the exploits of organized crime gangs make lively, as well as disturbing reading. Throughout the message is clear. We can and must save these animals from extinction.Table of ContentsChapter 1: IntroductionPART I: CAST OF ‘CHARACTERS’Chapter 2: The Animals: Elephants, Rhinos and People PART II: THE LAW Chapter 3: CITES and the CBD Chapter 4: Sustainable Use: golden thread or fool’s gold? PART III: THE COMMODITIESChapter 5: Elephant Ivory and Rhino Horn Chapter 6: The Products, their Retail Outlets, their Sellers and their Buyers PART IV: POACHING AND SMUGGLINGChapter 7: Poaching and its Consequences Chapter 8: The Survivors Chapter 9: Smugglers and Smuggling Routes PART V: THE ONE-OFF SALES OF ELEPHANT IVORYChapter 10: The One-off Sales of Elephant Ivory and their Aftermath PART VI: SURVEYING THE IVORY MARKETS Chapter 11: The Confusing Nature of Ivory Markets Chapter 12: Researchers and their Methodology Chapter 13: Markets in Africa Chapter 14: Markets in Southeast Asia Chapter 15: Markets in the United States of America Chapter 16: Markets in the UK PART VII: ILLEGAL TRADING IN RHINO HORN Chapter 17: The History of Rhinoceros Listing on CITES Chapter 18: The Illegal Trade in Rhino Horn PART VIII: OTHER PROBLEMS REVEALED Chapter 19: In Which We Meet Our First Organized Crime Gang and The Law is ChangedChapter 20: Organized Crime Chapter 21: Rebel Militia and ‘Blood Ivory’ Chapter 22: The Internet Chapter 23: Religious Ivory Chapter 24: Bribery and Corruption PART IX: ENFORCEMENT Chapter 25: The Enforcers Chapter 26: Seizures and arrests Chapter 27: Evidence Chapter 28: Prosecutions Chapter 29: Technology to the Rescue PART X: IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENTSChapter 30: The London Conference and what followedChapter 31: CoP16 Chapter 32: Updates on Some Countries Chapter 33: Rhino Trophy Hunting in South AfricaPART XI: RESEARCH AND EDUCATIONChapter 34: Research Chapter 35: Education PART XII: SUSTAINABLE USEChapter 36: The CBD Re-visited Chapter 37: Sustainable Use: Contentious IssuesPART XIII: SEEDS OF HOPE Chapter 38: PeopleChapter 39: Countries Chapter 40: Zoos, ecosystems and translocations PART XIV: TOWARDS A RESOLUTIONChapter 41: Last Chance to SaveChapter 42: Living Together: Resolutions to Human-elephant Conflict and Other Problems Chapter 43: Working Together Creates People Power Chapter 44: Survival or Extinction?

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Book SynopsisThis open access volume presents a comprehensive account of all aspects of biological invasions in South Africa, where research has been conducted over more than three decades, and where bold initiatives have been implemented in attempts to control invasions and to reduce their ecological, economic and social effects. It covers a broad range of themes, including history, policy development and implementation, the status of invasions of animals and plants in terrestrial, marine and freshwater environments, the development of a robust ecological theory around biological invasions, the effectiveness of management interventions, and scenarios for the future. The South African situation stands out because of the remarkable diversity of the country, and the wide range of problems encountered in its varied ecosystems, which has resulted in a disproportionate investment into both research and management. The South African experience holds many lessons for other parts of the world, and this book should be of immense value to researchers, students, managers, and policy-makers who deal with biological invasions and ecosystem management and conservation in most other regions.Trade Review“This resource will be valuable both to seasoned practitioners or academic researchers as well as to students just embarking on their careers. … Biological Invasions in South Africa will be seen as a pivotal milestone on the path to achieving these positive outcomes.” (Philip E. Hulme, South African Journal of Science, Vol. 117 (1-2), 2021)Table of ContentsPART 1 BACKGROUND 1. Biological invasions in South Africa: An overview Brian W. van Wilgen, G. John Measey, David M. Richardson, John R. Wilson and Tsungai A. Zengeya 2. A brief, selective history of researchers and research initiatives related to biological invasions in South Africa Brian W. van Wilgen PART 2 BIOLOGICAL INVASIONS IN SOUTH AFRICA 3. The biogeography of South African terrestrial plant invasions David M. Richardson, Llewellyn C. Foxcroft, Guillaume Latombe, David C. Le Maitre, Mathieu Rouget and John R. Wilson 4. Invasive alien aquatic plants in freshwater ecosystems Martin P. Hill, Julie A. Coetzee, Grant D. Martin, Rosali Smith and Emily F. Strange 5. Terrestrial Vertebrate Invasions in South Africa G. John Measey, Cang Hui and Michael Somers 6. Alien freshwater fauna in South Africa Olaf L.F. Weyl, Bruce Ellender, Ryan J Wassermann, Marliese Truter, Tatenda Dalu, Tsungai A. Zengeya and Nico J. Smit 7. Alien terrestrial invertebrates in South Africa Charlene Janion-Scheepers and Charles L. Griffiths 8. Biological invasions in South Africa’s offshore sub-Antarctic territories Michelle Greve, Charles Eric Otto von der Meden, and Charlene Janion-Scheepers 9. Coastal invasions: The South African context Tamara B. Robinson, Koebraa Peters and Ben Brooker 10. Pathogens of vertebrate animals as invasive species: Insights from South Africa Lesley van Helden, Paul D. van Helden and Christina Meiring 11. Biological invasions in South Africa’s urban ecosystems: Patterns, processes, impacts and management Luke J. Potgieter, Errol Douwes, Mirijam Gaertner, G. John Measey, Trudy Paap and David M. Richardson PART 3 DRIVERS OF INVASION 12. South Africa’s pathways of introduction and dispersal and how they have changed over time Katelyn T. Faulkner, Amy Burness, Marcus Byrne, Sabrina Kumschick, Koebraa Peters, Mark P. Robertson, Davina L. Saccaggi, Olaf L. F. Weyl and Vivienne Williams 13. The role of environmental factors in promoting and limiting biological invasions in South Africa John R. Wilson, Llewellyn C. Foxcroft, Sjirk Geerts, M. Timm Hoffman, Sandra MacFadyen, G. John Measey, Anthony Mills, David M. Richardson, Mark P. Robertson and Brian W. van Wilgen 14. Biotic interactions as mediators of biological invasions: Insights from South Africa Johannes J. Le Roux, Susanna Clusella-Trullas, Thabiso M. Mokotjomela, Mario Mairal, David M. Richardson, Lisa Skein, John R. Wilson, Olaf L.F. Weyl and Sjirk Geerts PART 4 IMPACTS OF INVASION 15. Impacts of invasions on terrestrial water resources in South Africa David C. Le Maitre, James N. Blignaut, Alistair Clulow, Sebinasi Dzikiti, Colin S. Everson, Andre H. M. Görgens and Mark B. Gush 16. The impact of invasive alien plants on rangelands in South Africa Timothy O’Connor and Brian W. van Wilgen 17. An evaluation of the impacts of alien species on biodiversity in South Africa using different methods Tsungai A. Zengeya, Sabrina Kumschick, Olaf L. F. Weyl and Brian W. van Wilgen PART 5 MANAGEMENT OF INVASIONS 18. Biological invasion policy and legislation development and implementation in South Africa Peter Lukey and Jenny Hall 19. More than a century of biological control against invasive alien plants in South Africa: a synoptic view of what has been accomplished Martin P. Hill, Vincent C. Moran, John H. Hoffmann, Stefan Neser, Helmuth G. Zimmermann, David O. Simelane, Hildegard Klein, Costas Zachariades, Alan R. Wood, Marcus J. Byrne, Iain D. Paterson, Grant D. Martin and Julie A. Coetzee 20. Analysing the risks posed by biological invasions to South Africa Sabrina Kumschick, Llewellyn C. Foxcroft and John R. Wilson 21. The extent and effectiveness of alien plant control projects in South Africa Brian W. van Wilgen, John R. Wilson, Andrew Wannenburgh and Llewellyn C. Foxcroft 22. Experience and lessons from alien and invasive animal control projects carried out in South Africa Sarah J. Davies, Martine Jordaan, Minette Karsten, John. S. Terblanche, Andrew Turner, Nicola J. van Wilgen, Ruan Veldtman, Tsungai A. Zengeya and G. John Measey 23. Biological invasions and ecological restoration in South Africa Patricia M. Holmes, Karen J. Esler, Mirijam Gaertner, Sjirk Geerts, Stuart A. Hall, Mlungele M. Nsikani, David M. Richardson and Sheunesu Ruwanza 24. The social dimensions of biological invasions in South Africa Ross T. Shackleton, Ana Novoa, Charlie M. Shackleton and Christian A. Kull 25. Education, training and capacity building in the field of biological invasions in South Africa Marcus J. Byrne, Dorette du Plessis, Philip J, Ivey, G. John Measey, Mark P. Robertson, Tamara B. Robinson and Kim N. Weaver. PART 6 NEW INSIGHTS 26. South Africa as a donor of naturalized and invasive alien plants to other parts of the world Petr Pyšek, Jan Pergl, Mark van Kleunen, Wayne Dawson, Franz Essl, Holger Kreft, Patrick Weigelt, John R. Wilson, Marten Winter and David M. Richardson 27. South Africa as a donor of alien animals G. John Measey, Tamara B. Robinson, Natasha Kruger, Tsungai A. Zengeya and Brett Hurley 28. Knowing-doing continuum or knowing-doing gap? Transferring research results to managers of biological invasions in South Africa. Llewellyn C. Foxcroft, Brian W. van Wilgen, Brent Abrahams, Karen J. Eslar and Andrew Wannenburgh 29. Biological invasions as a component of South Africa’s global change research effort Nicola J. van Wilgen, Brian W. van Wilgen and Guy F. Midgley 30. South Africa’s Centre for Invasion Biology: An experiment in invasion science for society David M. Richardson, Brent Abrahams, Nelius Boshoff, Sarah J. Davies, G. John Measey and Brian W. van Wilgen PART 7 THE WAY FORWARD 31. Potential futures of biological invasions in South Africa John R. Wilson, G. John Measey, David M. Richardson, Brian W. van Wilgen, and Tsungai A. Zengeya

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Book SynopsisThis book presents a new account of Euphorbia in southern Africa. Euphorbia is the second largest genus of plants in the world. Southern Africa enjoys a high diversity in Euphorbia and 170 species occur here naturally. Of these 170 species, 128 or 74% are endemic. Where most species of Euphorbia in the northern hemisphere are herbs or shrubs, most of those in southern African are succulent. These succulents range from small, almost geophytic forms where the tuber is larger than the above-ground parts to huge trees 6 to 15 m or more in height. Many of them are spiny. There are also small numbers of herbaceous species in southern Africa and many of these are also dealt with here. The last account of the succulent species for southern Africa was published in 1941 and much new data has accumulated since then. Our understanding of the relationships of the species in Euphorbia has also been greatly enhanced by recent analyses of DNA-data, which led to new and unexpected results. From this new information an entirely new classification was developed, in which Euphorbia was divided into four subgenera. This provides the taxonomic framework for the presentation of our species here. Around ten new species have been described and these are presented in detail for the first time. This monograph is made up of two volumes. Volume 1 contains an extensive introductory chapter with an overview of the genus in the region, emphasizing many of its important and distinctive features. This is followed by Chapter 2, which deals with subgenus Athymalus. Of the four subgenera, this one is by far the most diverse in southern Africa, with 80 species. Volume 2 contains Chapters 3 (subg. Chamaesyce, 34 species), 4 (subg. Esula, 11 species) and 5 (subg. Euphorbia, 45 species), as well as an additional Chapter 6 covering the remarkable diversity of subg. Euphorbia in Moçambique. Each of Chapters 2 to 5 includes a key to all the species, followed by an account of each of them. This account includes synonymy, a description, data on distribution and habitat, line-drawings of floral features and other diagnostic details, notes on how the species is distinguished from its closest relatives and a brief history of its discovery. Several colour photographs are included for each species, illustrating its habitat, vegetative habit and flowering features, demonstrating key points distinguishing it from others and often showing its variability. Euphorbia is an important component of the vegetation in many of the drier parts of southern Africa. This book is based on a thorough evaluation of the vast herbarium record for southern African members of Euphorbia, on the extensive field-work conducted in the region and the wide taxonomic experience of the author. It is believed that both the professional botanist and the layman will find much that is new and informative in this monograph.Table of Contents

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Book SynopsisThis book provides updated information on this intriguing and exciting group of insects: Neotropical Social Wasps. These insects have a particular biology and their colonies are formed by a few cooperative females living in either small or massive, structured nests where stinging individuals organize their activities and defend their offspring. Topics include evolutionary aspects, biogeography, post-embryonic development, community behavior and ecology, economic importance, and research methods. Table of ContentsA Brief Review Of Studies On Social Wasps In Brazil.- The Evolution of Swarm Founding in the Wasps: Possible Scenarios.- The foraging behaviour of neotropical social wasps.- The choice of sexual partner in social wasps.- Nesting Habits of Neotropical Social Wasps.- Castes and polymorphisms in neotropical social wasps.- The biology of swarm-founding epiponine wasp, Polybia paulsita.- Causes and consequences of reproductive conflicts in wasp societies.- Post-embryonic Development in Brazilian Social Wasps.- Evolution and adaptation of the wings and mandibles of neotropical social wasps.- Cuticular hydrocarbon studies in Neotropical Social Wasps.- Biogeographic hypotheses for the Neotropical Social Wasps.- Chromosome diversity and evolution in Neotropical social wasps.- Phylogeny and classification of the Neotropical social wasps.- List of species of social wasps from Brazil.- The Old-World versus New-World social wasps: Similarities, differences and threats.- Key to the genera of social wasps (Polistinae) occurring in Brazil.- Research techniques used in the study of social wasps.- Community ecology of social wasps in Brazil: Forty years of studies.- lnteractions between wasps and other animals: associations and natural enemies.- Interactions of social wasps with microorganisms.- Artificial Environments for Studying Eusocial Wasps.- Economic importance of Neotropical Social Wasps.

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Book SynopsisThis book addresses the multidisciplinary challenges in biodiversity conservation with a focus on wildlife crime and how forensic tools can be applied to protect species and preserve ecosystems. Illustrated by numerous case studies covering different geographical regions and species the book introduces to the fundamentals of biodiversity conflicts, outlines the unique challenges of wildlife crime scenes and reviews latest techniques in environmental forensics, such as DNA metagenomics. In addition, the volume explores the socio-economic perspective of biodiversity protection and provides an overview of national and international conservation laws. The field of conservation medicine stresses the importance of recognizing that human health, animal health, and ecosystem health are inextricably interdependent and the book serves as important contribution towards achieving the UN Sustainable Developmental Goals, in particular SDG 15, Life on Land. The book addresses graduate students, scientists and veterinary professionals working in wildlife research and conservation biology.Trade Review“The authors do an admirable job of presenting an overview of the many and complex aspects of the field. Sprinkled throughout the chapters are case studies illustrating practical applications of the concepts discussed. … this book does a good job of introducing readers to a variety of topics … . This text would be more valuable as a reference and planning tool for those interested in wildlife conservation as it applies to forensic investigations and the One Health approach.” (Rebecca Kagan, The Quarterly Review of Biology, Vol. 97 (2), June, 2022)Table of ContentsI. The Impact of Humans on Conservation The Importance of Biodiversity Conservation amidst Human-Wildlife Conflict One Health Concerns Wildlife Crime & Conservation Placing Humans in the Ecological Equation Wildlife Management and EcotourismII. Forensics & Conservation The Intersection of Forensics and Conservation- (Intro to conservation forensics) Processing the Wildlife Crime Scene Evidence of Forensic Importance in Wildlife CasesIII. Tools & Techniques of Conservation Forensics The Conservation of Threatened & Endangered Species The Application of Forensic Entomology and Carrion Ecology Wildlife Forensic Genetics Wildlife Forensic Toxicology Wildlife Forensic Pathology Working Dogs in Conservation Forensics IV. Special Topics: Fish, Reptiles and Marine Mammals – Issues and Identification Avian Species – Issues and Identification Mammals – Issues and Identification DNA Databases? Isotopic Analysis Cybercrime and Wildlife Products Developments in Wildlife Forensic Standards Wildlife Law and Legal ConcernsV. Case Studies Saving Africa’s Elephants (include forensics) Rhinos in Crisis (include forensics) Mountain Gorillas, a conservation success story (may include forensics) Few other case studies to represent multiple geographic regions, types of species, and how forensics has been utilized whether it be genetics, crime scene, database, pathology etc: North America Central/South America Europe – birds of prey; bird hunting (Scotland) Asia Australia/NZ – 1080 poisonings

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Book SynopsisThis textbook provides the first overview of plant-animal interactions for twenty years focused on the needs of students and professors. It discusses a range of topics from the basic structures of plant-animal interactions to their evolutionary implications in producing and maintaining biodiversity. It also highlights innovative aspects of plant-animal interactions that can represent highly productive research avenues, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in a future career in ecology. Written by leading experts, and employing a variety of didactic tools, the book is useful for students and teachers involved in advanced undergraduate and graduate courses addressing areas such as herbivory, trophic relationships, plant defense, pollination and biodiversity. Table of ContentsChapter 1 - Introduction.- Chapter 2 - Plant chemistry and their impacts on biotic interactions.- Chapter 3 - Herbivory and Plant defenses – antagonist interactions.- Chapter 4 - The molecular genetic basis in plant-animal interactions.- Chapter 5 - Biotic defenses against herbivory.- Chapter 6 - Pollination – from antagonistic to mutualistic interactions.- Chapter 7 - Dispersal – frugivory and seed dispersal.- Chapter 8 - Plant phenology: effects seasonality in biotic interactions.- Chapter 9 - Plant-mediated above-belowground interactions.- Chapter 10 - Ecosystem Engineers – how plant-animal interactions modify the environment.- Chapter 11 - Ecological networks in plant-animal interactions.- Chapter 12 - The evolution of facilitation and mutualism in plant-animal interactions.- Chapter 13 - Evolutionary conflicts in coevolved mutualisms.- Chapter 14 - Plant-Animal Interactions: and the origin of biodiversity.- Chapter 15 - Plant-Animal Interactions in the Anthropocene era.

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Book SynopsisArctic and Subarctic North America is particularly affected by climate change, where average temperatures are rising three times faster than the global average. Documenting the changing climate/environment of the north requires a structured knowledge of indicator taxa that reflect the effects of climate changes.Aleocharine beetles are a dominant group of forest insects, which are being used in many projects as indicators of environmental change. Many species are forest specialists restricted to certain microhabitats, some are generalists and others are open habitat specialists. They represent many ecological niches and, as such, are good indicators for many other species as well. The majority of Canadian aleocharine beetle species (about 600 spp.) has been studied and published by Jan Klimaszewski et al. (2018, 2020), mainly from southern, central, and western Canada, while the northern taxa remain poorly known and documented. The aim of the present book is to summarize the knowledge on this insect group in the Arctic and Subarctic North America and to provide a diagnostic and ecological tool for scientists studying and monitoring insects in northern Canada and Alaska. The book includes a review of the literature, information on 238 species and their habitats, taxonomic review, images, and identification tools.Trade Review“I am in awe of the efforts put forward by the authors of this volume. … This book is an excellent addition to the library of anyone interested in the effects of climate change on Arctic and Subarctic insects.” (Stylianos Chatzimanolis, The Coleopterists Bulletin, Vol. 76 (4), 2022)Table of ContentsIntroduction.- Historical review of research on Arctic and Subarctic Aleocharinae.- Material and methods.- Impact of climate change on northern fauna and flora.- Aleocharinae as indicators of change.- Faunal analysis and discussion.- Key to tribes occurring in Arctic and Subarctic zones.- Tribe Gymnusini Heer, 1839.- Tribe Aleocharini Fleming, 1821.- Tribe Oxypodini C.G. Thomson, 1859.- Tribe Tachyusini C.G. Thomson, 1859.- Tribe Hypocyphtini Laporte, 1835.- Tribe Myllaenini Ganglbauer, 1895.- Tribe Liparocephalini Fenyes, 1918.- Tribe Homalotini Heer, 1839.- Tribe Placusini Mulsant and Rey, 1871.- Tribe Athetini Casey, 1910.- Tribe Falagriini Mulsant and Rey, 1873.

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Book SynopsisThis book provides an integrated view of Atlantic coastal Patagonian ecosystems, including the physical environment, biodiversity and the main ecological processes, together with their derived ecosystem services and anthropogenic impacts. It focuses on the key components of the aquatic ecosystem, covering the lower levels (plankton) to the top predators like large mammals and birds, before turning to human beings as consumers and shapers of coastal marine resources. The book then presents an overview of how organisms that constitute the aquatic food webs have changed through time and how they likely will soon change due to global change processes and anthropogenic pressures. In this regard it offers a wealth of information such as long-term patterns in physical / atmospheric processes, biodiversity and the distribution of marine organisms, as well as the results of experimental studies designed to understand their responses under future scenarios shaped by both climate change and anthropogenic pressures. The book also covers various aspects of the past, present and potential future relationship of human beings with Patagonian coastal environments, including the utilization of sea products, tourism, and growth of cities.Table of ContentsPart I - The abiotic environment.- Chapter 1 - Climate variability and change in Patagonia region.- Chapter 2 - Patagonian sea: the physical environment.- Chapter 3 - Geological changes in coastal areas of Patagonia.- Part II - The biota in Patagonian coastal waters.- Chapter 4 - Life in the Patagonian seas through geological time.- Chapter 5 - Towards an understanding of the functioning and structure of plankton from Patagonia under a global change scenario: Lessons from univariable to mutivariable approaches.- Chapter 6 - Marine macroalgae in a changing world: what do we know and what do we still need to know.- Chapter 7 - Impact of global change on invertebrates.- Chapter 8 - Fishes changes in marine ichthyofaunas off Patagonia: species composition, biogeographic and functional patterns.- Chapter 9 - Long-term population trends of Patagonian marine mammals and their ecosystem interactions.- Chapter 10 - Long-term ecology studies in Patagonian seabirds: the case of the Imperial Cormorant, the Magellanic Penguin and other key species.- Chapter 11 - Ecological Interactions.- Part III - Human beings in Patagonian coasts.- Chapter 12 - The evolution in the utilization of sea resources by hunter-gatherers of Central Patagonian coast during the Holocene.- Chapter 13 - Fisheries and aquaculture in Patagonia: status trends and future perspectives.- Chapter 14 - The relationship of Patagonian societies with the sea, influences in their development and contributions to their wellbeing.- Chapter 15 - Futures of Patagonia: urban and tourist prospective in the next Anthropocene.- Chapter 16 - Conservation of coastal environments.

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Book SynopsisThis book provides an identification system permitting recognition of plant families in all seasons by means of morphological and macroanatomical features which are easily observable, such as bark, exudates, stems and leaves characters. Studies of forest vegetation may differ in their underlying objectives, but they all require taxonomic knowledge. The process of taxonomy begins with an inventory of the flora, which has been based to a large extent on reproduction-related organs, such as flowers and fruits. But, those are often difficult to observe and may not exist in the field at a given time. Unlike most such guides or keys, this book can be used anywhere in the tropics and provides, in a straightforward two or three-step process, identification to the level of families, which are now circumscribed according to molecular as well as morphological characters in the universally accepted scheme of the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group. Plant architecture is not a prerequisite theme for plant identification; however, we think that an introduction to this subject is not out of place in this book (architectural traits are taxonomically sound): it is now time for botanists working in the tropics to have an idea on how the whole organism keeps growing. Within the family accounts, there is information concerning important economic plants with notes on the larger genera and, particularly helpfully, discussion of families readily confused and how to separate them. Descriptions of the families rely on short diagnosis bolstered by many photographic pictures, lines drawings and extracts from the author’s field books, all showing features of plants as they are found in the forest.Table of ContentsPart I – User manual and architectural concepts. Chapter 1. Introduction.- Chapter 2. How to use this book 6.- Chapter 3. Architectural concepts and key to the models.- Part II. Identification keys.- Chapter 4. Key to the groups of families of trees and shrubs (groups 1 to 52).- Chapter 5. Keys to families of trees and shrubs.- Chapter 6. Supplementary keys.- Chapter 7. Keys to the groups of families of lianas and woody epiphytic (groups 53 to 57).- Chapter 8. Keys to families of lianas and woody epiphytes.- PART III. Description of the families.- Chapter 9. Acanthaceae to Asteraceae.- Chapter 10. Bignoniaceae to Buxaceae.- Chapter 11. Cactaceae to Cycadaceae.- Chapter 12. Dichapetalaceae to Dipterocarpaceae.- Chapter 13. Ebenaceae to Euphorbiaceae.- Chapter 14. Fagaceae.- Chapter 15. Gentianaceae to Goupiaceae.- Chapter 16. Hamamelidaceae to Humiriaceae.- Chapter 17. Icacinaceae s.l. to Irvingiaceae.- Chapter 18. Juglandaceae.- Chapter 19. Lamiaceae to Lythraceae.- Chapter 20. Magnoliaceae to Myrtaceae.- Chapter 21. Nyctaginaceae,- Chapter 22. Ochnaceae to Oxalidaceae.- Chapter 23. Pandaceae to Putranjivaceae.- Chapter 24. Rhabdodendraceae to Rutaceae.- Chapter 25. Sabiaceae to Symplocaceae.- Chapter 26. Tetramelaceae to Torricelliaceae.- Chapter 27. Ulmaceae s.l. to Urticaceae.- Chapter 28. Verbenaceae to Vochysiaceae.- Chapter 29. Zygophyllaceae s.l.- Chapter 30. Herbaceous versus arborescent habit in the families and orders of flowering plants - evolutionary trends.

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Book SynopsisThis open access book presents a comprehensive synthesis of the biodiversity of the oceanic islands of the Gulf of Guinea, a biodiversity hotspot off the west coast of Central Africa. Written by experts, the book compiles data from a plethora of sources – archives, museums, bibliography, official reports and previously unpublished data – to provide readers with the most updated information about the biological richness of these islands and the conservation issues they face. The Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands (Príncipe, São Tomé and Annobón and surrounding islets) present extraordinary levels of endemism across different animal, fungi and plant groups. This very high endemism likely results from the long geological history of the islands and their proximity to the diversity-rich continent. Many researchers, students and conservationists from across the globe are interested in documenting biodiversity on the islands, understanding the evolutionary origins of this diversity, and mitigating the impacts of global change on this unique archipelago. This book aims to be a primer for a broad audience seeking baseline biodiversity information and to serve as a roadmap for future research efforts aiming to fill knowledge gaps in understanding and conserving the unparalleled biodiversity of the Gulf of Guinea islands.Table of ContentsChapter 1. Biodiversity in the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands: A Synthesis.- Chapter 2. Physical Geography of the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.- Chapter 3. Classification, Distribution and Biodiversity of Terrestrial Ecosystems in the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.- Chapter 4. Territory, Economy and Demographic Growth in São Tomé and Príncipe: Anthropogenic Changes in the Environment.- Chapter 5. The History of Biological Research in the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.- Chapter 6. Biogeography and Evolution in the Oceanic Islands of the Gulf of Guinea.- Chapter 7. Species Ecology in the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands: Distribution, Habitat Preferences, Assemblages and Interactions.- Chapter 8. Fungi of São Tomé and Príncipe: Basidiomycete Mushrooms and Allies.- Chapter 9. The Bryophyte Flora of São Tomé and Príncipe (Gulf of Guinea): Past, Present and Future.- Chapter 10. Diversity of the Vascular Plants of the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.- Chapter 11. A Checklist of the Arachnids From the Gulf of Guinea Islands (Excluding Ticks and Mites) .- Chapter 12. The Beetles (Coleoptera) of Príncipe, São Tomé and Annobón.- Chapter 13. Butterflies and Skippers (Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea) of the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.- Chapter 14. Dragonflies and Damselflies (Odonata) of São Tomé, Príncipe, and Annobón.- Chapter 15. Diversity and Distribution of the Arthropod Vectors of the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.- Chapter 16. Terrestrial Mollusca of the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.- Chapter 17. The Fishes of the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.- Chapter 18. The Amphibians of the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.- Chapter 19. The Terrestrial Reptiles of the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.- Chapter 20. The Sea Turtles of São Tomé and Príncipe: Diversity, Distribution and Conservation Status.- Chapter 21. The Avifauna of the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.- Chapter 22. Current Knowledge and Conservation of the Wild Mammals of the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.- Chapter 23. Cetaceans of São Tomé and Príncipe.- Chapter 24. Biodiversity Conservation in the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands: Recent Progress, Ongoing Challenges, and Future Directions.- Chapter 25. Environmental Education in São Tomé and Príncipe: the Challenges of Owning a Unique Biodiversity.- Chapter 26. A Thriving Future for the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands.

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Book SynopsisThis open access book richly illustrates the first, and comprehensive, account of the country’s biomes and ecoregions, the driving forces that account for their diversity and vulnerability, and the ecological principles that provide an understanding of the patterns and processes that have shaped landscapes, ecoregions, and ecosystems. Angola encompasses the greatest diversity of terrestrial biomes and is the second richest in terms of ecoregions, of any African country. Yet its biodiversity and the structure and functioning of its ecosystems are largely undocumented. The author draws on personal field observations from over 50 years of involvement in ecological and conservation studies in Angola and across Southern Africa. The vast recent literature published by researchers in neighboring, better resourced countries provides depth to the accounts of ecological principles and processes relevant to Angola and thus contributing to the understanding and sustainable management of its natural resources. Table of ContentsIntroduction.- Biomes: Concepts, Characteristics and Terminology.- Profiles of Angola’s Biomes and Ecoregiens.- Landscapes: Geology, Hydrology and Geomorphology.

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Book SynopsisThis book invites snorkelers and divers on an educational visit to the most important ecosystems of the Mediterranean Sea. Keystone species from brown algae to dolphins are presented in their marine habitats and understood as part of a complex ecological system. Instead of grouping animals and plants taxonomically, we have organised them according to the eight main habitats of the Mediterranean Sea. Our journey starts with different types of rocky grounds, then takes you further to the Mediterranean’s sandy and muddy grounds, and finally ends with the fish and dolphins of the blue open sea. You will be introduced to 220 ecologically significant animal and plant species via the texts of Daniel Abed-Navandi, a long-time lecturer on the biodiversity of the Mediterranean Sea at the University of Vienna, and the photographs of Georg Glaeser, the master behind the camera, who captures marine life on the spot.Table of ContentsHabitat: Sunlit Rocky Grounds.- Habitat: Shady Rocky Grounds.- Habitat: Dark Caves.- Habitat: Intertidal Zone.- Habitat: Sandy Grounds.- Habitat: Seagrass.- Habitat: Muddy Grounds.- Habitat: Open Waters.- Humans and the Sea.

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Book SynopsisThis open access book. provides a synthesis of six projects, across ten countries, each of which have been sustained for two or more decades, and which illustrate how success can be achieved regardless of systems of governance, of a nation’s wealth, or of culture. Detailed narratives are presented on the key personalities that have conceived, conducted and concluded long-term projects: personal stories of vision, failure, frustration and persistence ultimately leading to success.The case studies vary widely in their geography and goals. The single-handed commitment to re-discover the last surviving populations of Giant Sable in the miombo woodlands of central Angola, through the capture, translocation and establishment of robust breeding herds of this magnificent antelope, contrasts with the massively funded, three-decade programme with over one hundred participants that reversed the annual loss to predation by feral cats of 455 000 seabirds from a sub-Antarctic island. Similarly, the foresight of Zimbabwean and Namibian ecologists to place rural communities at the centre of conservation programmes by giving value to wildlife populations and benefits to local people, transformed a land degradation problem to a socio-ecological solution. Across ten countries, building capacity in botanical collection, documentation and herbarium management expanded into a global project to place the knowledge base of Africa’s flora onto an electronic data system accessible to researchers and conservation planners in even the most remote corners of the continent. None of these projects enjoyed immediate results. Each required leadership skills that combined vision, a generosity of spirit, fortuitous timing and the exploitation of unexpected opportunities. Table of ContentsPart l. Background.- Chapter 1. Introduction: Success is Possible.- Chapter 2. Strategic Opportunism: A Pragmatic Approach to Conservation in Africa.- Part ll. Strategic Opportunism in Action: Six Stories of Success.- Chapter 3. Angolan Giant Sable: Rediscovery, Rescue and Recovery.- Chapter 4. Marion Island: Birds, Cats, Mice and Men.- Chapter 5. Gorongosa National Park: Wilderness, War and Wildlife Recovery.- Chapter 6. Overcoming the Taxonomic Impediment: SABONET and the African Plants Initiative.- Chapter 7. Building Biodiversity Knowledge: Mobilising Citizen Science.- Chapter 8. Bridging the Gap: Community Conservancies in Namibia and Zimbabwe.- Part lll: Conclusion.- Chapter 9. Twelve Fundamentals for Conservation Success.

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Book SynopsisRock surfaces provide a challenging habitat for a broad diversity of micro- or small-sized organisms. They interact with each other forming complex communities as well with their substrate causing biodeterioration of rock. Extreme fluctuation in light, temperature and hydration are the main factors that determine the rock surface habitats. The habitat includes epilithic organisms which thrive on the surface without penetrating the rock, endolithic organisms which live just beneath the surface using a thin layer of the rock surface for protection against adverse conditions of the environment (e.g. light protection, storage of water) and chasmo-endolithic organisms which use fractures of the rock surface for a more habitable environment. The book will provide an overview of the various organismal groups, from prokaryotes to vascular plants and arthropods, as well as survey organism-mediated interactions with the rock surface. The latter include biogenic weathering (biogeochemistry, state-of-the art imaging methods), photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation at and inside the rock surface.

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Book SynopsisFocusing on organic farming, this book presents peer-reviewed contributions from leading international academics and researchers in the field of organic agriculture, plant ecosystems, sustainable horticulture and related areas of biodiversity science. It includes case studies and reviews on organic agriculture, horticulture and pest management, use of microorganisms, composting, crop rotation, organic milk and meat production, as well as ecological issues. This unique book addresses a wide array of topics from all continents, making it a valuable reference resource for students, researchers and agriculturists who are concerned with biodiversity, agroecology and sustainable development of agricultural resources.Table of ContentsGlobal Trends in Organic Agriculture.- Organic Strawberry Production in Tennessee, USA and Areas of Comparable Climate in China.- Role of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) as Bio-fertilizers in Stabilizing Agricultural Ecosystems.- Safety, Nutrition and Health Aspects of Organic Food.- Plant-Parasitic Nematode Problems in Organic Agriculture.- Breeding for Organic and Sustainable Production.- Organic Agriculture: A Viable Option for Food Security and Livelihood Sustainability in Nepal.- The potential of silvopastoral systems for milk and meat organic production in the tropics.- Role of Legumes for and as Horticultural Crops in Sustainable Agriculture.- Principles of Vermitechnology in Sustainable Organic Farming with Special Reference to Bangladesh.- Composting, Crop Rotation, and Cover Crop Practices in Organic Vegetable Production.- Effective Micro-organisms (EM) as Sustainable Components in Organic Farming: Principles, Applications and Validity.- Season Extension in Organic Systems.- Consumer Perception of Organic Food and Product Marketing.- Sustainable Urban Agriculture: A Growing Solution to Urban Food Deserts.

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