'Ecology' by Robert E. Ricklefs

Title: 'Ecology'
Author: Robert E. Ricklefs
Genres: Non-Fiction, Science History, Reference, Education
Publisher: HarperCollins, New York, 2001

'Ecology' provides a sound introduction to the basic concepts of ecological science. The text uses numerous case studies and a wealth of diagrams, charts, and illustrations to support key points.

Robert E. Ricklefs is a Curators' Professor of Biology at University of Missouri at St. Louis. His many research interests include the study of diversity in ecological systems, avian life-histories, and avian demography.

In the preface of 'Ecology', Robert E. Rickelfs' intent for the book is illustrated in his description of why we study ecology:

We study ecology for two reasons: to gain the intellectual gratification that comes from understanding natural patterns and processes, and to apply that understanding to environmental problems that confront mankind. ~ Robert E. Ricklefs, 'Ecology'

'Ecology' consists of seven parts:

• Introduction
• Organisms in Physical Environments
• Energy and Materials in the Ecosystem
• Population Ecology
• Population Interactions
• Evolutionary Ecology
• Community Ecology

Chapters within te book are broken down into sections that focus on a key concept. At the beginning of the section, the concept is highlighted in bold text and is followed by case studies and description of supporting research.

'Ecology' is written in an accessible style and tackles complex subjects with clarity:

The basic information of ecology concerns the lives of organisms and the environments in which they live. In its raw form, fresh from the field, such information is called natural history. The observations of natural history provide a basis upon which scientific inquiry begins to establish patterns and determine the mechanisms responsible for those patterns. ~ Robert E. Ricklefs, 'Ecology'

It provides a solid foundation in the concepts of ecology and is a popular choice for introductory courses in ecology.

I recommened this book to those wishing to strengthen their understanding of how animals fit into the environments in which they live. This book provides a strong foundation for the study of natural history and helps to teach readers how to look at nature with sensitivity and curiousity.