Describes a hypothesis that ecosystems maximize biodiversity Suggests modified version of the dominant paradigm in population biology and evolution Discusses specific examples of events and phenomena that positively affect the diversity of life Presents a new view likely to elicit deeper discussions of biodiversity

Describes a hypothesis that ecosystems maximize biodiversity Suggests modified version of the dominant paradigm in population biology and evolution Discusses specific examples of events and phenomena that positively affect the diversity of life Presents a new view likely to elicit deeper discussions of biodiversity

This book presents a hypothesis and evidence that organisms promote and ecosystems maximize biodiversity. All species have a net positive effect on their environment, other species, and diversity. The sun is 30% hotter than when life began, but the temperature has been kept moderate by life. Life created high oxygen, the ozone layer, and fertile soil, a diverse, living system. No species evolves in isolation, and most evolution is coevolution. The nature and number of links between species are as important as species number. Eukaryotes coevolve with complex ecosystems of microbes with which they exchange genes. Genomes and intraspecific interactions both act to promote evolution and diversification. Viruses increase diversity of their hosts and cause macroevolutionary transitions. Key Features Life alters the Earth in ways that increase biodiversity All species make their environment better for other species and promote diversity Life created the life-friendly atmosphere, temperature, and soil of today

These are poems that come from the heart, and speak to the heart. They recall the poets and poems of the distant past, merging their influence with exciting, modern poetic devices. They break new ground as they rebel against the lifeless, prosaic poetry that is so common today.