Island Biogeography: Geo-environmental Dynamics, Ecology, Evolution, Human Impact, and Conservation

The study of species distribution and dynamics in island environments is known as island biogeography. Due to their isolation, islands are both hotspots for unique species evolution and sites of concentrated extinction. This textbook covers recent advances, island formation processes, dynamics, and demise, highlighting islands' importance as biodiversity hotspots and the impact of human activities on extinction. It examines threats to island species and proposes conservation strategies tailored to their unique needs.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 496 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Island biogeography, a captivating field of study, delves into the intricate dynamics of species distribution and evolution within island environments. These unique habitats, isolated from the broader continental species, provide fertile grounds for the emergence of distinctive species, yet they also witness intense extinction events. Consequently, islands attract the attention of ecologists, evolutionary biologists, and conservationists alike, who seek to unravel the secrets of these captivating ecosystems. This accessible textbook, a successor to its predecessors, showcases the latest advancements in island biogeography, elucidating how islands have played a pivotal role in shaping both theoretical frameworks and empirical testing. Furthermore, the book delves into the intricate processes of island formation, subsequent dynamics, and eventual demise, shedding light on the significance of island environmental history in understanding the field. The authors emphasize the remarkable biodiversity found on islands and the profound impact of prehistoric and historic human-induced extinctions. Recognizing the continued importance of island species in the face of threats, the book examines the primary factors jeopardizing their persistence and explores potential mitigation measures. It offers comprehensive conservation strategies tailored specifically for islands, recognizing their distinct needs and challenges. By exploring the interplay between species distribution, evolution, and human impacts, island biogeography provides valuable insights into the complex web of life and the conservation efforts required to preserve the diversity of our planet.

Weight: 1052g
Dimension: 189 x 246 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198868576
Edition number: 3 Revised edition