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The Herbaceous Layer in Forests of Eastern North America (Life Sciences)

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The Herbaceous Layer in Forests of Eastern North America is an invaluable reference tool for those interested in studying forest ecology. The editors have assembled an impressive group of scientists who weigh-in on current issues related to the herbaceous layer of eastern forests. Subjects include nutrient cycling, ecophysiology, composition, interaction with overstory, temporal and spatial dynamics, disturbance, invasion, and more. This is a text that has been long-needed, and includes numerous references that will be helpful for graduate and undergraduate students alike. My doctoral research work has been significantly enhanced and influenced by reading the chapters presented in this book. The ecologic importance of the diverse and multi-functional forest plant layer cannot be overstated. The editors have done justice to the formerly-known "step-over" plants, revealing their significant and intrinsic link within a comprehensive definition of forest ecology. Every college and university library should have at least one copy of this book, and every student of forestry would benefit from keeping this book handy.