An Introduction to Applied Biogeography

An introductory textbook on the study of plant and animal distribution and the applications of biogeography.

Ian F. Spellerberg (Author), John W. D. Sawyer (Author), Tony Whitten (Foreword by)

9780521451024, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 4 March 1999

260 pages, 53 b/w illus. 38 tables
24 x 16.3 x 1.6 cm, 0.509 kg

'… a well-written and produced book that takes a broad look at the history and applications of biogeography. T. Markham Puckett, PRISCUM

Biogeography is about the geographical distribution, both past and present, of plants, animals and other organisms. In this undergraduate textbook Spellerberg and Sawyer bring a modern and new approach to a developing subject, writing in a lively and sometimes provocative manner. Throughout the text the applications of biogeography in conservation management, economic production, environmental assessment, sustainable use of resources, landscape planning and public health are emphasised. Applications of island biogeography in conservation, the concept of wildlife corridors and the analysis of biogeographical data are all discussed and the role of humans and their cultures in biogeography is explored. The applied approach of this textbook, along with its numerous illustrative examples and figures, make it an interesting introduction to the field for all geography, biology and environmental science students.

Foreword Tony Whitten
Preface
Acknowledgements
1. Biogeography: the nature of the subject, its history and its applications
2. Patterns of distribution and biogeographical classifications
3. Islands
4. Geological, evolutionary and human impacts on biogeography
5. Ecological patterns and types of species distribution
6. Biogeographical information: collection, retrieval and application
7. Habitat fragmentation
8. Biogeography of linear landscape features
9. Future developments
Appendix I. Glossary
Appendix II. Addresses of relevant organisations
Index.

Subject Areas: Conservation of wildlife & habitats [RNKH], Biogeography [RGM], Ecological science, the Biosphere [PSAF]