Ecology of Natural Disturbance and Patch Dynamics

Ecologists are aware of the importance of natural dynamics in ecosystems. Historically, the focus has been on the development in succession of equilibrium communities, which has generated an understanding of the composition and functioning of ecosystems. Recently, many have focused on the processes of disturbances and the evolutionary significance of such events. This shifted emphasis has inspired studies in diverse systems. The phrase "patch dynamics" (Thompson, 1978) describes their common focus.
The Ecology of Natural Disturbance and Patch Dynamics brings together the findings and ideas of those studying varied systems, presenting a synthesis of diverse individual contributions.

List of contents

Introduction.
Patch Dynamics in Nature.
Adaptations of Plants and Animals in a Patch Dynamic Setting.
Implications of Patch Dynamics for the Organization of Communities and the Functioning of Ecosystems.
Synthesis.

Product details

• Authors: PICKETT, S. T. Pickett
• Assisted by: P. S. White (Editor), Steward T. Pickett (Editor), Steward T. A. Pickett (Editor), Steward T.A. Pickett (Editor), Steward T.A. (Institute of Ecosystem Studies Pickett (Editor), Steward T.A. Pickett (Editor), P. S. White (Editor), P. S. (Great Smoky Mountains National Park White (Editor)
• Publisher: ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 15.12.1986
• EAN: 9780125545211
• ISBN: 978-0-12-554521-1
• No. of pages: 472
• Subjects: Natural sciences, medicine, IT, technology > Biology > Ecology; Non-fiction book; NATURE / General, natural history, Nature and the natural world: general interest