Standing between Life and Extinction: Ethics and Ecology of Conserving Aquatic Species in North American Deserts

North American deserts have a variety of aquatic life, but European settlement, water extraction, resource exploitation, and invasive species have put many of these species on a downward spiral. Conservationists document the history of their work, techniques, and philosophies in Battle Against Extinction, and the challenges and opportunities of the future are explored in Standing Between Life and Extinction.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 496 pages
\n Publication date: 04 March 2021
\n Publisher: The University of Chicago Press
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North American deserts, characterized by their scarcity of water, have long been home to a remarkable diversity of aquatic life, ranging from fish to insects and mollusks. However, with the arrival of European settlers, the extraction of water, resource exploitation, and the introduction of invasive species began to take a toll on these native aquatic species. In response, conservationists have dedicated themselves to preserving these creatures and their habitats.

A precursor to this book, Battle Against Extinction, published in the late 1980s, provided an overview of the problem and related conservation activities. Since then, numerous nascent conservation programs have matured, and researchers have developed new technologies, improved and refined methods, and significantly expanded our knowledge of the myriad influences on the ecology and dynamics of these species.

Standing between Life and Extinction brings the story up to date. While the future for some species is more secure than it was three decades ago, others face greater challenges. This book not only highlights iconic species such as the razorback sucker, Gila trout, and Devils Hole pupfish but also explores the scientific, social, and political challenges of preserving these aquatic species and their habitats in the face of an increasingly charged political discourse and in desert regions characterized by a growing human population and rapidly changing climate.

Conservationists have employed various techniques and philosophies to protect these aquatic species. One approach is habitat restoration, which involves repairing and restoring damaged ecosystems to their natural state. This can involve removing invasive species, reintroducing native species, and improving water quality and flow. Another technique is captive breeding, which involves raising and breeding endangered species in controlled environments to increase their population numbers and facilitate their reintroduction into the wild.

In addition to these technical approaches, conservationists have also worked to raise awareness about the importance of preserving aquatic species and their habitats. This has involved engaging with local communities, policymakers, and the public to promote sustainable practices and advocate for conservation policies. Conservationists have also collaborated with other organizations, such as government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies, to develop and implement conservation strategies.

Despite these efforts, conservationists face numerous challenges in their work. One of the biggest challenges is the loss of habitat due to urbanization, agriculture, and other development activities. This loss of habitat can lead to the fragmentation of populations and the decline of species. Another challenge is the introduction of invasive species, which can outcompete native species and disrupt ecosystems. Climate change is also a significant threat to aquatic species, as it can alter water temperatures, precipitation patterns, and ocean currents, which can have devastating effects on ecosystems and species.

Despite these challenges, conservationists remain committed to their work. They continue to develop new technologies and methods to protect aquatic species and their habitats. They also work to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and promote sustainable practices. Conservationists also collaborate with other organizations and individuals to develop and implement conservation strategies that address the complex challenges facing aquatic species and their habitats.

In conclusion, North American deserts have long been home to a remarkable diversity of aquatic life, but with European settlement and the introduction of invasive species, many of these native aquatic species have faced significant threats. Conservationists have dedicated themselves to preserving these creatures and their habitats, employing various techniques and philosophies to protect these species. While progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to ensure the long-term survival of these aquatic species and their ecosystems. By continuing to develop new technologies and methods, raising awareness, and collaborating with other organizations, conservationists can help ensure that these remarkable creatures and their habitats remain a part of our world for generations to come.

\n Weight: 1498g\n
Dimension: 219 x 279 x 27 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780226694474\n \n