Conservation Biology

This beautifully illustrated textbook introduces students to conservation biology by taking the reader on a tour of the many and varied ecosystems of our planet, providing a setting in which to explore the factors that have led to the alarming loss of biodiversity. In particular, the fundamental problems of habitat loss and fragmentation, habitat disturbance and the non-sustainable exploitation of species in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems are explored. The methods that have been developed to address these problems from the most traditional forms of conservation to new approaches at genetic to landscape scales are then discussed, showing how science can be put into practice.

• The first comprehensive introduction to conservation biology with a global perspective
• Written in an easy, accessible style
• Illustrated with numerous colour pictures and diagrams throughout
• Each chapter features key ideas, suggestions for further reading, relevant websites and points for discussion
• Text boxes used throughout to present supplementary information, definitions and case studies from around the world