Customer Reviews

Biological Soil Crusts

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After being frustrated of where to find helpful data about microbial crusts I asked a Army Corp of Engineer professional with a long documented research history of microbial crusts. He recommended this book and basically anything that Belnap is involved in. I find it containing a plethora of information that encourages me in my studies. There are case studies of microbial crusts from around the world in it, as well as a foundational information pertaining to the structure and purpose of these micro communities. I am eager to reference this in my thesis.

Compiled and written by various experts from many different academic fields, this book represents our sum-total knowledge of biological soil crusts (BSCs) to date (at least, as of 2003). It is logically-arranged into different sections and chapters, each written by an expert in that area. It is fully referenced throughout, and includes bibliographies at the end of each chapter.

The book is a valuable research tool for exploring nearly any topic related to BSCs--from the microbial structure to their biogeography. It also discusses areas of further research needed, and how much we still lack in knowledge about this wonderful ecosystem.

If you have ever wanted to know the intricacies associated with BSCs, or are simply a curious scientist (or generally curious person, I suppose), this is a superb introduction and overview of a quite complex ecosystem. It is an invaluable research resource.

BSCs are found all over the world, and it is a shame that more people aren't aware of them, their accompanying benefits, and the need to preserve them.