{ebook} Biogeography：an ecological and evolutionary approach (9th edition)

Abstract

This book reveals how the patterns of life that we see today have been created by the two great ‘engines of the planet’: the geological engine – plate tectonics – that alters the conditions of life on the planet, and the biological engine – evolution – that responds to these changes by creating new forms and patterns of life. It remains the only textbook to cover all three arenas of biogeographical research: continental biogeography, island biogeography and marine biogeography. Through eight successful editions, and more than 40 years, Biogeography: An Ecological and EvolutionaryApproach has provided a thorough and comprehensive exploration of the varied scientific disciplines and research that are essential to understanding the subject. The text has been praised for its solid background in historical biogeography and basic biology, which is enhanced and illuminated by discussions of current research. Building on these foundations, the ninth edition incorporates recent advances such as the rise of molecular methods of investigation and presents a thoughtful exploration of the research and controversies that have transformed our understanding of the biogeography of the world. There is a new chapter on conservation biogeography by Richard Ladle that discusses new techniques for gathering and integrating data on the distribution of species, as well as substantial updates to existing chapters.