Fundamentals of Soil Ecology - Tapa dura

"This is a superbly crafted primer for anyone interested in the burgeoning field of soil ecology. It builds a conceptual framework and provides context for more in-depth analysis of the primary literature. It masterfully presents much of its information as figures and tables taken from primary literature, and provides just enough information to entice readers to seek more details from the original work. Coleman and Crossley blend their tremendous wealth of experience, to present an historical perspective of the field as no other writers could. It is refreshing to read such a thorough and effective coverage of classic studies pertaining to soil ecology." --THE QUATERLY REVIEW OF BIOLOGY "This is an excellent primer for serious students. There are more than 500 references, most of which are either classics or recent good work. There are lots of interesting tidbits to keep the reader going. I enthused on about the merits of this book to a colleague who teaches soil biology, only to discover he has already used it in class, and was equally enthusiastic." --Steve Sheppard in JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

This graduate level text reference is designed to be a bridge between ecologists and soil scientists of all sorts. There is increasing awareness that soil is the organizing centre for all terrestrial ecosystems. This supplemental text examines why this is so, in terms of physics, chemistry, and biology of the soil ecosystem. Aspects of biodiversity and global change, and the important role soils play in global carbon balance, are also discussed. Fundamentals of Soil Ecology is a holistic approach to soil biology and ecosystem function and treats soils as: Living entities, not "black boxes" Organizing centers for how ecosystems function over time Filled with diverse biota, fauna, microbes, and roots Features: * Living entities, not "black boxes" * Organizing centers for how ecosystems function over time * Filled with diverses biota, fauna, microbes, and roots