Showing papers on "Aquatic biodiversity research published in 1991"

The biodiversity of microorganisms and invertebrates : its role in sustainable agriculture : proceedings of the First Workshop on the Ecological Foundations of Sustainable Agriculture (WEFSA 1), London, 26-27 July 1990

Abstract: It is only recently that the implications of declining biodiversity for sustainable agricultural production and environmental protection have been recognized. However, while justifiable concern is expressed at the need to conserve and prevent from extinction the larger flora and fauna of the world, the importance of micro-organisms and invertebrates in the stable functioning of ecosystems has attracted less overt attention. Nevertheless, this subject is now recognized as of major significance for a number of issues, such as maintenance of soil fertility and provision of natural enemies for the biological control of pests and pathogens. This book addresses a number of these key issues and is based on a workshop organized by CAB International in association with the Commission on the Application of Science to Agriculture, Forestry and Aquaculture (CASAFA) of the International Council of Scientific Unions, the Commonwealth Science Council, and the Third World Academy of Sciences. Four main subject areas are covered: the importance of invertebrates and micro-organisms as components of biodiversity; the importance of biodiversity in sustaining soil productivity; the importance of biodiversity to pest occurrence and management; and biotechnology and biodiversity among invertebrates and micro-organisms.

Fundamentals of aquatic ecology. 2nd edition

Abstract: Description: In origin, this book is the second edition of Fundamentals of Aquatic Ecosystems. However, it is not simply an update, and is thoroughly modified to become a new and very different book. The emphasis throughout is on the integration of freshwater and marine ecology leading to a balanced, comparative approach; each chapter being drafted by both a marine biologist and by a biologist concerned with inland waters. Chapters consider the various 'types' of aquatic ecosystem; water columns, coasts, deep–water zones, each discussing features common to all systems, such as primary production and nutrient cycling, so that comparisons can be drawn between systems. One chapter considers the important area of aquatic ecosystems and global ecology, discussing topics such as global nutrient fluxes and interactions between aquatic and terrestrial systems. Later chapters look at the individuals and communities in aquatic environments; covering community organization, reproduction and life histories, speciation and biogeography, and specialist aquatic feeding mechanisms. The peculiar habitats of reefs and then streams and rivers are discussed, and the book closes with a review of the impact of man's activities on aquatic ecosystems, including pollution, exploitation for food and conservation. This book provides an invaluable new approach for students taking courses in all areas of aquatic biology. Of the first edition: "No better introductory survey of these highly significant aspects of modern biology could be desired." Nature Contents: Contributors.