Biology and Wildlife of the Mediterranean Region (Biology of Habitats) - Tapa blanda

"Synthesizes the history, ecology, and evolutionary biology of Mediterranean animals and plants and their habitats, focusing on the region's incredible biodiversity and causes for it. Coverage encompasses biological diversity at many spatial scales of space and biological integration, with chapters on species and community variations, life-history traits and ecosystem functioning, and humans as sculptors of Mediterranean landscapes. The writing style is informal, without technical jargon. Includes b&w maps and drawings. Blondel is director of research at CNRS, France; Aronson is research ecologist at CEFE/CNRS, France."--SciTech Book News

The Mediterranean is an outstanding 'hot- spot' of biological diversity. It is exceptional not only for this, but also because of its long history of interactions between its human inhabitants and the other fauna and flora of the region. The cradle of many civilizations, the Mediterranean region has been host to humans for thousands of years. This book is the first to synthesise our current understanding of the ecology, biology, and geology of Mediterranean animals, birds, and plants, and their habitats. The authors focus on the unique historical determinants and spatial patterns of Mediterranean biodiversity. In particular, the dramatic impacts of long-term human activities on the region's landscapes, flora, and fauna, are considered. This fascinating story will be of interest to researchers and students in ecology, biology, conservation, and geography, as well as to naturalists, and ecotourists visiting this popular holiday region.