Description

Robert May's seminal book has played a central role in the development of ecological science. Originally published in 1976, this influential text has overseen the transition of ecology from an observational and descriptive subject to one with a solid conceptual core. Indeed, it is a testament to its influence that a great deal of the novel material presented in the earlier editions has now been incorporated into standard undergraduate textbooks. It is now a quarter of a century since the publication of the second edition, and a thorough revision is timely.

Theoretical Ecology provides a succinct, up-to-date overview of the field set in the context of applications, thereby bridging the traditional division of theory and practice. It describes the recent advances in our understanding of how interacting populations of plants and animals change over time and space, in response to natural or human-created disturbance. In an integrated way, initial chapters give an account of the basic principles governing the structure, function, and temporal and spatial dynamics of populations and communities of plants and animals. Later chapters outline applications of these ideas to practical issues including fisheries, infectious diseases, tomorrow's food supplies, climate change, and conservation biology. Throughout the book, emphasis is placed on questions which as yet remain unanswered.

The editors have invited the top scientists in the field to collaborate with the next generation of theoretical ecologists. The result is an accessible, advanced textbook suitable for senior undergraduate and graduate level students as well as researchers in the fields of ecology, mathematical biology, environmental and resources management. It will also be of interest to the general reader seeking a better understanding of a range of global environmental problems.

Features

• A new edition of the single most influential book in Theoretical Ecology, edited by the father of the subject
• Provides a succinct, up-to-date overview of the field set in the context of applications, thereby bridging the division of theory and practice
• Chapters written by leading scientists in collaboration with some of the brightest members of the next generation
• Strong editorial leadership ensures a consistent style throughout the book
• An invaluable reference work as well as ideal material for theoretical ecology courses

Reviews

Listed in Mathematical Reviews

"A well-edited compilation... The coverage provides a broad introduction to current literature of theoretical ecology and a superb integration of theory and fact."--Science

Product Details

272 pages; 86 illus.; ISBN13: 978-0-19-920999-6ISBN10: 0-19-920999-5

About the Author(s)