Description
Book SynopsisThe role of non-native species in their new environments is one of the central issues in conservation biology and ecology today. This book presents a comprehensive evolutionary exploration of the complex and dynamic interactions between introduced species and native ones, and shows that non-native species can bring useful and important contributions to novel ecosystems. Based on a wide variety of examples and case studies, a strong case is made for a more positive and objective approach to non-native species and a greater appreciation of the valuable ecosystem services they provide.
Trade ReviewRadu Guiaşu has written a thoughtful and critical review of our ideas about nonnative species. An aquatic ecologist, Guiaşu questions the common notion that introduced species represent a major global ecological calamity. This is a must read for anyone interested in conservation and biodiversity. - Mark A. Davis, Professor of Biology, Macalester College, St. Paul, MN Radu Guiaşu's book adds a welcome new voice to the growing chorus of conservation "heretics" calling for comprehending—rather than reflexively confronting—introduced species, and for accommodating them wherever that accomplishes the greater good. - Matthew K Chew Ph.D., Arizona State University, Center for Biology & Society Dr. Guiasu has performed a Herculean task of covering the field of invasive species from a wide and diverse angle. He has expertly both covered and critiqued a large scientific field with a style of writing that makes this a joy to read. Although the scientific depth is apparent, Dr. Guiasu has deftly presented the ideas such that experts and non-experts will be informed, entertained, and challenged to think about one of the foremost threats to nature. Rather than just report findings, Dr. Guiasu presents the field of invasive biology with all of the successes and faults in an open way allowing the reader to draw their own nuanced conclusions. This book is destined to become a staple reading for biologists in any field, but an essential read for ecologists and conservation biologists. This book will be added to the required reading list for my students. - Dr. Paul A. Moore Ph.D., Biology Department, Bowling Green State University
Table of ContentsAcknowledgements ix Introduction 1 1 The Troublesome Matter of Subjective Definitions 8 2 The Dynamic Distributions of Species and the Static Concept of Native Range 38 3 Speciation, Biodiversity, and Introduced Species 57 4 The Controversies Regarding the Perceived Negative Impacts of Non-native Species 83 5 Positive Contributions of Introduced Species 139 6 Changing Ecosystems and Impacts of Introduced Species over Time 160 7 The Endless War on Invasive Species – Control and Eradication Programs 203 8 Some Conclusions and Some Questions 244 Literature Cited 277 Index 309
