An introduction to evolutionary ecology

"Why was 1983 so bad for giant pandas? Why have sex in the sea? Why are there so many species of beetle? These and other problems are addressed in this beautifully illustrated textbook. Using a wealth of real examples, from both the animal and plant kingdoms and often in areas of current controversy, Andrew Cockburn explores the questions at the heart of evolutionary ecology: the origin and maintenance of the diversity of organisms; the pressures that determine their form and shape their behaviour; and the way in which they interact. In addition, a final chapter considers the application of evolutionary ecology, covering the management of endangered species, the causes of extinction, the importance of genetic diversity and the release of genetically engineered organisms. The book includes mathematical approaches to the study of evolution and ecology, but no great mathematical competence is assumed -- emphasis is placed on the testing of theory rather than its algebraic development. In contrast, the text includes a much more detailed discussion of genetics than is usual in an ecology text, and breaks new ground in surveying developments in molecular genetics, paleontological theory, and the application of quantitative genetics to evolution. Aimed at senior undergraduate and postgraduate students this well-structured and lucid text provides an up-to-date, critical evaluation of many of the dilemmas at the heart of evolutionary ecology" -- Back cover.