Overview

This work looks at the practical consequences of declining biodiversity on ecosystem health and function, and on human society. It integrates technical literature and theory on biodiversity, keystone species, invasives, productivity and ecosystems services, elucidating why we should care for the mechanics of natural life support systems.

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9781559635202

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Reviews

[a] 'must read' for teachers, students, scientists, and citizens at all levels of expertise. The valuation of nature should be considered and widely debated by all concerned with humanity's future. --Nature

"""[a] 'must read' for teachers, students, scientists, and citizens at all levels of expertise. The valuation of nature should be considered and widely debated by all concerned with humanity's future.""-- ""Nature"""

The idea that the Earth provides 'ecological services' of considerable value to humans is a fairly recent concept. While we have begun to accept the importance of biological diversity in providing food, shelter, clothing and industrial products, most people do not appreciate that biodiversity provides services such as clean air and water - services so basic we take them for granted. Nor do they appreciate the problems which are the consequences of the accelerating loss of biodiversity. Baskin, an experienced science journalist, puts us in the field with up-to-the-minute scientific work and examples drawn from around the world. The result is a clear popular treatment of an important matter that concerns us all. (Kirkus UK)

Author Information

Yvonne Baskin is a widely published science journalist whose work has appeared in numerous magazines including Discover, Earth, Science, and BioScience. She divides her time between Bozeman, Montana, and San Diego, California.

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