Tropical Conservation Biology

Nowhere in the world is biodiversity conservation and management more critical than in the highly biodiverse tropical regions. Although the temperate regions of the Earth have suffered severely from human encroachments in the ancient and recent past, the present-day (and future) biodiversity crisis looms largest in the tropics. This is especially important because it is in the tropics that the largest tracts of still-pristine habitat, the greatest species diversity, and the richest centres of endemism are found. The mounting threats to tropical biodiversity require conservation practitioners to make urgent conservation decisions. As such, it is critical to document the current state of tropical biodiversity, determine possible ways to protect it, and synthesize the vast body of scientific research relevant to tropical regions in a concise, yet comprehensive format. Tropical Conservation Biology is the first teaching textbook to examine the broad spectrum of conservation issues as they relate specifically to terrestrial and aquatic habitats of the tropics. ? Presents case studies and interviews with prominent conservation scientists to help situate key concepts in a real world context ? Includes short biographies of some of the world's most eminent conservation scientists followed by a brief set of questions and answers that focus on some of the most pertinent and pressing issues in tropical conservation biology today. It is hoped that current students will benefit from the knowledge and be inspired by the passion of these renowned biologists. ? Covers a broad range of topics including: the fate of the coral reefs; the impact of agriculture, urbanization, and logging on habitat depletion; and the effects of fire on plants and animal survival ? Highlights conservation successes in the region, and emphasizes the need to integrate social issues, such as human hunger, into a tangible conservation plan ? Documents the current state of the field as it looks for ways to predict future outcomes and lessen human impact Tropical Conservation Biology is an essential resource for senior undergraduate and graduate students, scientists and managers with an interest in tropical habitat conservation and management.