Synopses & Reviews
This book provides a broad introduction to saltmarsh ecology, concentrating on plants, although much of the information should also be of interest to zoologists. Particular attention is given to the geographical diversity of saltmarsh vegetation and to the ecophysiological mechanisms which permit tolerance to the major challenges of high, but variable, soil salinities and of frequently waterlogged soils. The importance of saltmarshes as functioning ecosystems is discussed and issues relevant to the long-term conservation and management of saltmarshes are considered. Saltmarsh Ecology will be useful to upper level undergraduates and wetland scientists.
Review
"...I recommend this book for wetland ecologists. Adam's arguments for and against various ideas will stimulate many thoughts about what controls salt marsh systems by providing a broader perspective." Joy B. Zedler, Ecology"...an excellent reference and guide to the literature....the most valuable and stimulating aspect of the book was the frequent suggestion of new research areas....well worth the money. It will be a useful reference for decades." Valrie A. Gerard, Quarterly Review of Biology"a valuable resource not only for the wealth of literature but also for the fact that the author confronts many of the dogma that have been established and, using available literature, points up weaknesses and/or inconsistencies." Gordon W. Thayer, Bulletin of Marine Science"Saltmarsh Ecology by Paul Adam is the definitive text on one of the most omportant ecosystems found at the edge of the sea. Adam...provides an exhaustive description of saltmarsh ecology. Those of us who work...in marine biology will find this book especially helpful and will frequently turn to the extensive bibliography." Freshwater and Marine Aquarium Book Review"...pulls together much information regarding the physiology, distribution, and ecology of the salt marsh flora...any worker in the field will benefit from these sections..." Ernest Ruber, Journal of College Science Teaching"...presents a refreshing overview of a vast field of saltmarsh research and one that Canadian researchers can enjoy and profit from....Saltmarsh Ecology effectively puts a broad cross-section of what we need to know on saltmarshes together in a readable resource document. It gives us a vital perspective--both local and global--to help us better deal with what is an extremely important part of our coastal ecosystem." Patrick Stewart, Canadian Society of Environmental Biologists Newsletter
Synopsis
The saltmarsh has a unique biota influenced by both the marine and terrestrial environment. In recent years considerable advances have been made in understanding the adaptation of species to this unique environment, and these are covered fully in this broad introduction to the ecology of the saltmarsh. The book devotes particular attention to the diversity of saltmarsh vegetation worldwide, its ecophysiological characteristics and its importance in functioning ecosystems.
Synopsis
The saltmarsh is uniquely influenced by both the marine and terrestrial environment. This book provides a broad introduction to the ecology of the saltmarsh, devoting particular attention to the diversity of saltmarsh vegetation worldwide, its characteristics and importance.
Synopsis
The saltmarsh has a unique biota influenced by both the marine and terrestrial environment. In recent years considerable advances have been made in understanding the adaptation of species to this unique environment, and these are covered fully in this broad introduction to the ecology of the saltmarsh. The book devotes particular attention to the diversity of saltmarsh vegetation worldwide, its ecophysiological characteristics and its importance in functioning ecosystems.
Synopsis
In this introductory text, emphasis is placed on the geographical diversity of saltmarsh vegetation as well as the ecophysiological mechanisms that respond to the major challenges of variable soil salinities and frequently waterlogged soils.
Table of Contents
Abbreviations for frequently-occurring species names; 1. General features of saltmarshes and their environment; 2. The saltmarsh biota; 3. Variation in saltmarsh vegetation; 4. Coping with the environment; 5. Plant life history studies; 6. Saltmarshes as ecosystems; 7. Modification, management and conservation; References; Index.