Nonlinear Physics of Ecosystems

Providing an integrative treatment of nonlinear physics and applications in ecology, this text introduces the basic concepts, tools, and applications to important problems in ecology. It exposes readers to the new emerging research field that integrates pattern formation and spatial ecology. The book supplies a detailed overview of pattern formation theory as applied to spatial aspects of landscape, community, and ecosystem ecology. The author also covers state-of-the-art applications in ecology research, from modeling water-limited plant communities to studies in biodiversity, resource patterns, and ecosystem engineering.