The Biology of Polar Habitats

This series of textbooks is intended to provide an integrated overview of the design, physiology, ecology and behaviour of the organisms in different habitats. Each book provides information about the habitat and the types of organisms present, on practical aspects of working within the habitats and the sorts of studies which are possible, and includes a discussion of biodiversity and conservation needs. Further Reading sections lead the reader to key papers, review articles and books in which the subject may be explored at greater depth. This volume in the series provides an overview of polar habitats, from ice caps to tundra and open ocean. It describes their physical characteristics, the communities of micro-organisms, plants and animals inhabiting them, and their interactions with the global environment. It reviews the origins of the habitats and their subsequent colonization and population dynamics, and considers the future changes which may result from global warming, stratospheric ozone depletion, and human activities. The text is primarily aimed at students taking courses on polar ecology as part of BSc. and M.Phil. degree programmes in ecology, marine biology, environmental studies, conservation and polar studies. It may also be of interest to research biologists.