Monteverde: Science and Scientists in a Costa Rican Cloud Forest (Venture: Science)

The ecology of tropical forests that grow at high altitudes is described through the eyes of scientists who live and work at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve in Costa Rica.

Grade 7 Up. Although many books about tropical rain forests have appeared recently, no volume for secondary school students has concentrated on tropical cloud (montane) forests. Collard remedies that situation admirably in his study of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve and some of the scientists who work there. He explains the origins and development of the preserve and its importance in studies of various types of plants and animals. He introduces readers to scientists trying to unravel the connection among various species and explains how they conduct research, whether high in the forest canopy or beneath the trees. Some of their studies end unhappily, with the reduction or disappearance of a species whose habitat has been altered or reduced. Numerous photographs of the plants and animals mentioned in the text enhance the presentation. Not only does the book provide a fine introduction to a rare type of tropical forest, but it may also entice readers to consider scientific careers of their own.?Kathy Piehl, Mankato State University, MN
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.