Evolutionary Ecology of Invasive Species

The book "The Evolutionary Ecology of Invasive Species" provides insights into the mechanisms driving rapid evolution in these species, exploring preadaptation, phenotypic plasticity, selection, and stochastic processes. It covers a wide range of invasive organisms and discusses the evolutionary consequences for native species.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 228 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2021
Publisher: Elsevier Science Publishing Co Inc

The field of evolutionary ecology has gained significant insights into the mechanisms driving rapid evolution in invasive species. This comprehensive book provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements made in this field over the past two decades, encompassing a wide range of topics. It delves into discussions about potential future directions for the study of evolution in invasive species, drawing upon the expertise of an international expert in invasion ecology, population genetics, and evolutionary biology.

The author of this book explores the intricate roles of preadaptation, phenotypic plasticity, selection, and stochastic processes in accelerating the evolution of invasive species. By examining a diverse array of invasive microbes, plants, and animals across numerous biogeographic regions, the book sheds light on the evolutionary consequences for native species in response to biological invasions. This text serves as a valuable resource for researchers and students in evolutionary biology, invasive species biology, and global change biology. It offers insightful perspectives and suggests future research directions related to the evolutionary biology, impacts, and management of invasive species.

The book begins by providing an introduction to the concept of invasive species and their ecological and evolutionary implications. It then delves into the mechanisms driving rapid evolution, including preadaptation, phenotypic plasticity, selection, and stochastic processes. The author highlights the importance of understanding these processes in order to develop effective management strategies for invasive species.

Chapter 1 explores the role of preadaptation in driving rapid evolution in invasive species. The author discusses how certain traits or characteristics of invasive species may have evolved in their native habitats and how these traits can provide them with a competitive advantage in new environments. This chapter also explores the mechanisms by which preadaptation can be transferred between species and the potential for hybridization to accelerate evolution.

Chapter 2 examines phenotypic plasticity as a key mechanism for rapid evolution in invasive species. The author discusses how environmental changes can induce phenotypic plasticity in invasive species, allowing them to adapt to new conditions quickly. This chapter also explores the role of genetic variation and genetic drift in shaping phenotypic plasticity and the potential for genetic adaptation to occur in response to environmental changes.

Chapter 3 explores the role of selection as a driving force in rapid evolution in invasive species. The author discusses how different environmental pressures, such as predation, competition, and herbivory, can select for specific traits or characteristics in invasive species. This chapter also explores the role of sexual selection and the potential for sexual selection to drive the evolution of reproductive traits in invasive species.

Chapter 4 examines the role of stochastic processes in driving rapid evolution in invasive species. The author discusses how random genetic mutations, gene flow.

Weight: 376g
Dimension: 152 x 227 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780128183786