Urban Biodiversity: The Natural History of the New Jersey Meadowlands

Urban Biodiversity: The Natural History of the New Jersey Meadowlands is a case study that presents two decades of data and assessment of the habitats and biota of the Meadowlands region, documenting the mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, butterflies, bees, dragonflies, seed plants, mosses, and lichens of the region and the patterns of their occurrence.

Format: Hardback
Length: 460 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

The decline in many plant and animal species, as well as other disruptions like climate change and urbanization, necessitates our understanding of how humans and other species can coexist peacefully. In a comprehensive study on urban biodiversity, Erik Kiviat and Kristi MacDonald present a two-decade analysis of the habitats and biota of the New Jersey Meadowlands. Urban Biodiversity: The Natural History of New Jersey Meadowlands offers a detailed account of the region's mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, butterflies, bees, dragonflies, seed plants, mosses, and lichens, along with their patterns of occurrence. This work serves as a valuable record of the natural history of an urban-industrial area, aiding decision-makers in promoting biodiversity in cities and providing planners with tools to mitigate the biological degradation associated with urbanization.

The authors highlight the importance of understanding the interactions between humans and other species in urban environments. They note that the Meadowlands region, with its diverse habitats and rich biodiversity, serves as a valuable case study for studying these interactions. The book provides detailed information on the various species found in the Meadowlands, including their ecological roles, habitat preferences, and conservation status.

One of the key findings of the study is the importance of preserving and protecting urban green spaces, such as parks and gardens, for the conservation of biodiversity. The authors argue that these spaces provide essential habitats for a wide range of species and play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem services, such as air purification and water regulation. They also emphasize the need for sustainable urban planning practices that prioritize the conservation of natural resources and promote the coexistence of humans and other species.

The book also explores the challenges faced by urban biodiversity conservation, including habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. The authors discuss the strategies and initiatives implemented to address these challenges, such as the creation of green infrastructure, the promotion of sustainable transportation, and the implementation of wildlife conservation policies.

Urban Biodiversity: The Natural History of New Jersey Meadowlands is a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of urban biodiversity and the importance of conservation. The book provides a comprehensive and up-to-date account of the region's biodiversity and offers insights into the strategies and initiatives needed to promote sustainable coexistence between humans and other species in urban environments.

Weight: 798g
Dimension: 228 x 160 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781498599917