Essentials of Conservation Biology

by Richard B. Primack

Essentials of Conservation Biology, Second Edition is an updated and improved version of the successful first edition, and includes current examples, study questions and the latest literature. It combines theory and research findings to explain links between conservation biology and environmental economics, ethics, law and the social sciences. Dr Primack stresses how local people, the general public and governments can all play a part in protecting biological diversity. He further emphasizes the need for sustainable development--providing for human needs without harming biodiversity. Clearly written, beautifully illustrated and with over 1,000 bibliographic references, this broadly based book will be enjoyed by not only biology undergraduates and graduates but also students and researchers in other disciplines.

Major issues that define the discipline: what is conservation biology? what is biological diversity? where is the World's biological diversity found? Valuing biodiversity: the value of biological diversity; indirect economic values; ethical values. Threats to biological diversity: extinction; vulnerability to extinction; habitat destruction, fragmentation, and degradation; overexploitation, exotic species, and disease. Conservation at the population and species levels: problems of small populations; applied population biology; establishing new populations; ex situ conservation strategies. Practical applications: establishing protected areas; designing protected areas; managing protected areas; outside protected areas; restoration ecology. Conservation and human societies: conservation and sustainable development at the local and national levels; an international approach to sustainable development; an agenda for the future.