The Biology of Deserts

This book offers a concise but comprehensive introduction to desert ecology and adopts a strong evolutionary focus. The emphasis in the book is on the organisms that dominate this harsh environment, although theoretical and experimental aspects as well as conservation and desertification are also considered. The Biology of Deserts includes a wide range of ecological and evolutionary issues including morphological and physiological adaptations of desert plants and animals, species interactions, the importance of predation and parasitism, food webs, biodiversity and conservation. It features a balance of plant and animal (both invertebrate and vertebrate) examples, and also emphasizes topical applied issues such as desertification and invasive species.

304pp. Paperback. 135 line drawing.
90 b/w halftone illus.
9780199211470

Also available in Hardback