Ecology the basics
Description
The text sets out the fundamentals that underpin ecology - the study of the relations between organisms of the same of different species and between organisms and the abiotic (non-living) environment. In other words, it is the study of where we live.
The structure of the book follows the classical style followed by most educators teaching this subject. It is divided into seven chapters which could be the basis of a semester's learning. Non-specialist, jargon-free language is used throughout with technical words and phrases explained in the text and in a glossary. Each chapter begins with an overview of the key themes covered and ends with suggestions for further, self-directed study. Chapter 1 is an introduction to the subject and contains outlines of how the subject has developed, its relevance today, and the skills required by an ecologist. Chapters 2 - 7 address, in turn, the abiotic (non-living) environment, adaptations of organisms to their abiotic environment, population ecology, community ecology, ecosystem ecology, and landscape ecology. Cross-cutting themes such as behavioural ecology, aquatic ecology, and terrestrial ecology are woven throughout these chapters. Relevant case studies, based on twenty-first century global challenges (changing climate, urbanisation, the biodiversity crisis, and the spread of invasive non-native species) and ecological ways of tackling these issues (nature-based solutions and species and habitat conservation (including rewilding)), are presented in relevant chapters.
In Ecology: The Basics the author synthesises ecological understanding to provide a foundation for first- and second-year undergraduates who are approaching ecology for the first time or are looking to refresh their knowledge. Ecology: The Basics also serves as a foundation for those coming to ecology as part of their higher-level studies, or who wish to be more informed about ecology as part of their life-long learning journey.The text sets out the fundamentals that underpin ecology - the study of the relations between organisms of the same of different species and between organisms and the abiotic (non-living) environment. In other words, it is the study of where we live.
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Person
Philip James is Emeritus Professor of Ecology the University of Salford, UK. He taught there for nearly 30 years. He is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (UK), a Chartered Biologist (CBiol); a fellow of the Royal Society of Biology (FRSB), the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (FIEEM rtd), of the Linnean Society of London (FLS); and a member of the British Ecological Society. His research interests are in urban ecology, wildlife conservation, habitat management, and health and well-being linked to the natural environment. Since retiring he volunteers at a local country park, is a trustee of the Lancashire Wildlife Trust, and writes books and articles. His most recent book is the co-authored James and Douglas (2024) Urban Ecology 2nd Edit, Routledge which is targeted at the final year undergraduate and post-graduate market.
Philp taught ecology at the University of Salford for nearly 30 years. Of relevance to this book, he taught first and second year undergraduate modules covering, ecology and biogeography in which he taught the topics covered within this book.
Content
1: Ecological knowledge and skills and their application, 3: Individuals: adapting to the environment, 5: Community ecology, 6: Ecosystem ecology, 7: Landscapes