Nearly one-third of the land area on our planet is classified as arid or desert. Therefore, an understanding of the dynamics of such arid ecosystems is essential to managing those systems in a way that sustains human populations. This second edition of Ecology of Desert Systems provides a clear, extensive guide to the complex interactions involved in these areas. This book details the relationships between abiotic and biotic environments of desert ecosystems, demonstrating to readers how these interactions drive ecological processes. These include plant growth and animal reproductive success, the spatial and temporal distribution of vegetation and animals, and the influence of invasive species and anthropogenic climate change specific to arid systems. Drawing on the extensive experience of its expert authors, Ecology of Desert Systems is an essential guide to arid ecosystems for students looking for an overview of the field, researchers keen to learn how their work fits in to the overall picture, and those involved with environmental management of desert areas. Highlights the complexity of global desert systems in a clear, concise way Reviews the most current issues facing researchers in the field, including the spread of invasive species due to globalized trade, the impact of industrial mining, and climate change Updated and extended to include information on invasive species management, industrial mining impacts, and the current and future role of climate change in desert systems
The book . . . should serve as an inspiration to many for future research."--Journal of Biogeography "This book is not just about deserts; it is an update of the contributions that research in desert systems is making to community ecology.
"In this book the authors consider the ecology of desert organisms. They have illustrated the principles involved with a selection of interesting examples from a wide body of research and...
This book provides a global ecological overview, together with in-depth studies of specific processes.
Summarises current understanding of desert river ecology and its dependence on unpredictable river flows.
A collection of articles on the ecology of North American desert springs, by authors from the fields of biology, botany, ichthyology, conservation, geology and law; and covering both the special traits of springs and the ways in which they ...
Natural History"An energetic start quickly became a trudge; we glanced back frequently towards our point of departure, an air-conditioned vehicle. Not only did the hot air feel like a blast...
This transdisciplinary book explores the natural and built environment of this desert region and introduces development tools for shaping its future in a more sustainable way.
Andrea Kaus found her ability on horseback and willingness to work hard enabled her to work with the men in the Chihuahua Desert, but her interactions with the women and children were natural and equally important (Kaus 1992).
Steve Morton brings his extensive first-hand knowledge and experience of arid Australia to this book, explaining how Australian deserts work ecologically.
Written in language understandable to both physicists and ecologists in most parts, the book reveals the mechanisms of pattern formation and pattern dynamics. It als