This collection of specially commissioned articles looks at fragmented habitats, bringing together recent theoretical advances and empirical studies applying the metapopulation approach. Several chapters closely integrate ecology with genetics and evolutionary biology, and others illustrate how metapopulation concepts and models can be applied to answer questions about conservation, epidemiology, and speciation.
The extensive coverage of theory from highly regarded scientists and the many substantive applications in this one-of-a-kind work make it invaluable to graduate students and researchers in a wide range of disciplines.
* Provides a comprehensive and authoritative account of all aspects of metapopulation biology, integrating ecology, genetics, and evolution
* Developed by recognized experts, including Hanski who won the Balzan Prize for Ecological Sciences
* Covers novel applications of the metapopulation approach to conservation

Habitat destruction has left many landscapes increasingly fragmented. These isolated populations, or metapopulations, are in a constant state of change-growing, shrinking, disappearing, and reappearing. This unique volume brings together an international team of ecologists, geneticists, and evolutionary biologists who provide a comprehensive review of metapopulations. This book will provide fundamental reading for anyone studying the spatial dynamics of populations.
This book is an essential reference for anyone who is interested in conservation and population dynamics.
Key Features
* Essential for biologists interested in spatial population dynamics
* Serves as a valuable reference to conservationists
* Covers both the principal theories and field studies
* Reviews the ecology, genetics, and evolution of metapopulations