This book provides an understanding of the joint dynamics of physical, chemical, and biological components of the ecosystem, and describes the role of ecology as an operational environmental science in solving environmental problems.

This work synthesizes an understanding of ecosystem ecology from the number of disciplines with which it interlinks. Organized into four parts it covers: research study methods; the concept of an ecosystem; themes of research; and the overall functioning of the biosphere in historical perspective.

In order for biodiversity to be conserved, it is important to know how and where diverse assemblages of plants and animals exist, to understand the effects of human impacts on them, and to find the means by which these impacts can be lessened and even reversed. While tropical systems are known to be amongst the most diverse and most threatened globally, tropical freshwater systems have been neglected, and the tremendous variety of fish, amphibians, invertebrates and plants which live in them are poorly known yet seriously threatened. This comprehensive book brings together a wealth of information on the fish of tropical African systems, and discusses how these systems evolved, what holds them together, and what is tearing them apart. This is an important reference work not only for those interested in fish, but for all concerned with biodiversity conservation anywhere.

The title provides an overview of the current knowledge about the diversity of the living world and the various problems associated with its conservation and sustainable use. Covering both the fundamentals of the subject, along with the latest research, "Biodiversity" presents key conservation issues within a framework of global case studies.

Starting with a summary of the concept of biodiversity, the text then explores such subjects as species richness, ecological systems, the consequences of human activities, diversity and human health, genetic resources, biotechnology and conservation. Comprehensive introduction to key issues surrounding the study of biodiversity.Extensive bibliography and references to numerous relevant websites.Introduces current research in the field within a framework of useful case studies.