An Introduction to Conservation Biology

An Introduction to Conservation Biology is the only text designed for both aspiring conservation biologists and non-majors who are interested in this topical field, providing up-to-date perspectives on high-profile issues such as sustainable development, global warming, and strategies to save species on the verge of extinction. The book focuses successively on biological diversity and its value; threats to biological diversity; conservation at the population and species levels; protecting, managing and restoring ecosystems; and sustainable development. Each chapter is beautifully illustrated in full colour with diverse examples from the current literature.

Chapters begin with guiding conservation biology principles and end with study aids such as summaries, an annotated list of suggested readings, and discussion questions. Throughout, the authors maintain a focus on the active role that scientists, local people, conservation organizations, government, and the general public play in protecting biodiversity, even while providing for human needs.

Contents: Chapter 1 Defining Conservation Biology Chapter 2 What Is Biodiversity? Chapter 3 The Value of Biodiversity Chapter 4 Threats to Biodiversity: Habitat Change Chapter 5 Climate Change and Other Threats to Biodiversity Chapter 6 Extinction Risk Chapter 7 Conserving Populations and Species Chapter 8 Establishing New Populations and Ex Situ Conservation Chapter 9 Protected Areas Chapter 10 Conservation Outside Protected Areas Chapter 11 Restoration Ecology Chapter 12 The Challenges of Sustainable Development Chapter 13 An Agenda for the Future