This edition has been substantially revised and rewritten, taking into account the advances made in the field in the 12 years since the first edition was published. It covers the methods and techniques that are available for the study of populations and ecosystems. Although particular emphasis is placed on the study of insect populations, the methods discussed have a wide application, and are of relevance to ecologists in all fields. Techniques used to obtain both absolute and relative population estimates are described, and approaches to the direct measurement of birth, death and migration reviewed. The final chapters turn to methods used in the measurement and description of diversity, species packing, energy flow and trophic relationships, and the use of theoretical models in ecology. The text shows a wide range of equipment and methods of analysis. It should be of interest to all students in the fields of ecology and entomology.
