"All in all, this is an exceptionally competent book, the only one of its sort to achieve a systematized, also systemic, insight into the question of how far and how fast we are reducing the biotic diversity of the Earth." Norman Myers, Nature
"This volume is an important contribution because for the first time we see a concerted effort to describe the many dimensions and pervasive nature of biotic impoverishment. The message is grounded in sophisticated ecological science and it comes from leading ecologists." James R. Karr, Journal of the North American Benthological Society
"This important book helps us to understand that environmental processes can develop into what we might call both positive and negative feedback loops." Tim McKay, Econews
"Woodwell has assembled a collection of top-notch scientists to treat the problem across this wide geographical and ecological range. What emerges is a well-written and excellent set of syntheses." Peter S. White, American Scientist
"...a well produced, well written, and reasonably priced book. It provides a worthwhile introduction to and overview of problems of disturbance in a variety of situations, and it is suitable for students, researchers, and decision makers in government and industry." Robin J. Tausch, Restoration Ecology
"...will prove an important summary for ecologists and enviromental scientists, as well as for policymakers, economists, legislators, and students of environmental ethics." the Quarterly Review of Biology
Product Description
The Earth's biotic resources are experiencing a spreading crisis, which is leading not only to the most rapid loss of species in the past 65 million years, but also causing abrupt changes in the structure and function of natural communities. This disturbance, unfortunately, is the result of man's carelessness in the name of advancing civilization. To identify and begin rectifying this dangerous situation, a group of outstanding environmental scientists has compiled a collection of case studies that illustrate the changes being wrought on the biosphere by the human presence. The first part of the book frames the issue with a series of papers on global change and patterns of impoverishment, with particular emphasis on the effects of air pollution. Successive sections explore the nature of chronic disturbances in a variety of ecosystems including forests, woodlands, grasslands, tundra, and aquatic systems. The book concludes with two chapters that offer possible solutions to this critical situation. By defining the major types of changes in the structure and function of natural communities exposed to chronic disturbance, the authors hope to instill concern and, ultimately, a change of policy.
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