Ecology: From Individuals To Ecosystems

by Michael Begon, John L. Harper, Colin R. Townsend

Begon, Townsend, and Harper's Ecology has long been regarded as the definitive textbook on all aspects of ecology. This new edition provides a comprehensive treatment of the subject, from the first principles of ecology to the current state of the field, and aims to improve students' preparedness to address the environmental problems of the new millennium. Thoroughly revised and updated, this fourth edition includes: The resulting textbook is easy to use, lucid and up-to-date, and is the essential reference for all students whose degree program includes ecology and for practicing ecologists.

Genres: Ecology, Science, Biology, Nonfiction, Textbooks, Nature, Reference

738 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1986

About the author

Michael Begon, B.Sc., Ph.D, is professor and head of department of Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour at the University of Liverpool's Institute of Integrative Biology.

For his academic profile, see:
https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/integrati...

Reviews

[Muhammad al-Khwarizmi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though something about the cover artwork suggests that this is a so-called "user-friendly" or, perhaps less charitably, "dumbed-down" textbook on ecology, the maxim "don't judge a book by its cover" holds true. The fact is, it is somehow semi-encyclopedic in nature; in other words, it is part textbook and part reference text. Not infrequently it assumes considerable prior knowledge of biological topics. It is a fairly advanced text for this reason. There are few faults with the content, though sometimes explanation of models is somewhat opaque and of course any discussion involving p-values brings with it many caveats and perhaps even falsehoods. That however is a defect that one can find in many other texts as well. I recommend this title and I would go as far as to say that it is, as far as I know, peerless in some ways. Nonetheless, it is better to use it for the most part in the reference capacity I mentioned earlier.

Another nice thing about this book: its formatting is very uncluttered. Almost perfect graphic design except for the ugly orange shades being used therein.

[Yuta Tamberg · Rating 2 out of 5]

A bit better, a bit worse than previous editions. Boxes and other scattered bits of information are tiresome to follow. It is written in a way somewhat reminding of a website, with natural flow of concentration often interrupted. It is, in my opinion, not a good thing for a book to cause unnecessary distractions.
Still, it is a good book, though heavily skewed to terrestrial ecology. One should own and consult, if not enjoy, this book. But then, it is not exactly meant for enjoyment.

[Kevin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solid book on general ecology, a perfect review if you haven't had an ecology class for a while (i.e. undergrad). A bit simplistic in parts, but those areas can be quickly skimmed over. Good for understanding biogeochemical cycles, all the way up to ecosystem dynamics - a solid overview of all levels of ecology.

[for-much-deliberation ... · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good research text. The material therein takes an in-depth look at the ecological science.....

[Chris]

a classic!

[Lee Broderick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Superb introductory text to the subject; balancing theory, method, case-studies and the odd-joke to keep the whole thing from becoming too daunting.