Synopses & Reviews
Aerial photography has revealed the striking, widespread phenomenon of repeating patterns of vegetation in more arid areas of the world. Two interdependent phases, bands of dense and sparse vegetation, alternate in the landscape. This volume synthesizes half a century's accumulated knowledge of both theoretical and applied landscape function from a variety of these regions. It covers structure, dynamics, and methods of study, as well as disturbances to these landscapes and relevant management issues. Various chapters discuss the role of modeling in answering questions about the origins and complex processes of banded landscapes.
Synopsis
Aerial photography has revealed the widespread phenomenon of patterns of alternating dense and sparse vegetation in more arid areas of the world. This volume synthesizes half a century's accumulated knowledge of both theoretical and applied landscape function in these regions. It covers structure, dynamics, and methods of study, as well as disturbances to these landscapes and relevant management issues. Studies of banded landscapes have yielded valuable lessons for understanding other semi-arid landscapes as well, including lessons for sustainable use and rehabilitation.
Table of Contents
Banded vegetation patterns and related structures * Theories on the origins, maintenance, dynamics and functioning of banded landscapes * Specific methods of study * Runoff and Erosion Processes * Soil Water balance * Soil Biota in Banded Landscapes * Vegetation dynamics: recruitment and regeneration in two-phase mosaics * Multiscale Modelling of Vegetation Bands * Landscape Models for Banded Vegetation Genesis * Productivity of patterned vegetation * Towards Improved Management of Arid and Semi-Arid Banded Landscapes * Banded landscapes: Ecological Developments and Management Consequences