The current widespread loss of species, genetic variability, and even entire biological communities has caused serious concern within the scientific community and among the general public. The new multidisciplinary science, conservation biology, has developed to address this crisis, and both research activity and student interest in conservation biology have rapidly expanded during the last fifteen years. The excitement of this field is highlighted by 2001–2002 being designated as the International Biodiversity Year by DIVERSITAS, a scientific body associated with the United Nations. Richard Primack's Essentials of Conservation Biology was the first textbook in this field, and continues to be widely used in undergraduate courses. Essentials of Conservation Biology, Third Edition, is an updated and improved version of the popular first and second editions, and includes current examples, study questions, and the latest literature.
Essentials of Conservation Biology combines theory and applied and basic research to explain the connections between conservation biology and environmental economics, ethics, law, and the social sciences. This new edition stresses the need for theory, research, and an interdisciplinary approach in solving conservation problems. A major theme throughout the book is the active role that local people, the general public, conservation organizations, and governments can play in protecting biological diversity. An additional theme is sustainable development: providing for human needs in a way that does not harm biological diversity. Dr. Primack presents positive suggestions throughout the book to show the reader how threats to species are being dealt with, and conveys an enthusiasm for the exciting new developments in the field of conservation biology.
Essentials of Conservation Biology, Third Edition, is divided into 6 parts and contains 22 chapters. Each chapter begins with general ideas and principles, which are illustrated with choice examples from the current literature. The most instructive examples are discussed in boxes highlighting species and issues of particular significance, such as the decline of songbird populations, conservation programs on military reservations, the pressures for development in wildlife refuges, sea turtle conservation, and the restoration of river ecosystems. Chapters end with summaries, an annotated list of suggested readings, and discussion questions. The first three chapters (Part I) define biological diversity and give general background information in ecology, evolution, and biogeography. Part II outlines the economic and ethical arguments for preserving biological diversity. Part III describes the rapid loss of species currently occurring, and the major threats to species. Part IV discusses the problems faced by small populations in the wild and in captivity, and the information needed to protect species. Part V reviews the range of strategies for protecting biological diversity in the wild, both inside and outside protected areas. The establishment, design, and management of protected areas are emphasized. Part VI describes the legal, financial, and political mechanisms that exist for the protection of biological diversity at local, national, and international levels. The book closes with a strong agenda describing the changes needed to protect biological diversity, and the roles that conservation biologists need to play to make those changes a reality.
Essentials of Conservation Biology, Third Edition, is beautifully illustrated and is written in clear, non-technical language. It is suitable for undergraduate biology students, as well as students in other disciplines. The book is particularly appropriate for students who do not speak English as a first language. The book's broad, up-to-date coverage and its extensive bibliography with over 1,000 references also make it valuable to graduate students and researchers.
RICHARD B. PRIMACK, Boston University, USA.
