Biological Diversity Exploiters and Exploited

This book takes a fresh, innovative approach to the teaching of biodiversity. Rather than detailing and cataloguing of the major taxa and their evolutionary relationships, the authors have selected 19 groups of organisms and used these as a framework in which to discuss the species and their interactions with man and each other. There is a strong narrative theme throughout - the exploited and the exploiters - and, in many cases, there is emphasis on the historical context. A wide range of organisms are covered, from bacteria to mammals and there is an equal split between plants and animals. Species have been chosen for their ability to best illustrate particular biological principles, and for their strong interaction with other species. After an introduction the book is divided into two parts: ls"Exploited' and ls"Exploiters'. Each of the chapters, although linked to each other, forms a stand-alone essay. They are scientifically rigorous, up-to-date and do not shy away from addressing some controversial issues. Chapters have' text boxes' highlighting important issues and concepts, lists of further reading and references. In addition to tables and figures the book has a selection of original illustrations.

Dr Paul Hatcher and Professor Nick Battey, both at the School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, UK