Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
The Atlantic Walrus: Biological, Historical, and Indigenous Insights into Species-Human Interactions addresses the key dimensions of walrus and human interactions across the North Atlantic and Arctic regions over the past 4,000 years. It establishes a new synthesis of historical ecology and biology, focusing on the effects of climate change on the species' population and the different phases of human impacts. Sections cover genetics and behavior, delving into evolution and purposes, and detail prehistoric, pristine walrus populations affected by Indigenous and Viking hunting and usage. The book emphasizes the importance of molecular advances and biological research and how to conserve remaining populations.
This is an ideal resource for marine biologists and conservationists who require the most updated and accurate source of biological and historical information on the species. Paleoecologists will also find this useful for the evolution of the Atlantic walrus and how the species has needed to adapt to the environment and neighboring humans to survive.
- Edited and written by leading international researchers and experts on the Atlantic walrus (Odobenus rosmarus rosmarus)
- Features integrative case studies on the effects of human interaction, including hunting, cultural significance and habitat destruction
- Details the latest marine mammal research, including drone technology applications for tracking walrus populations
- Assesses historical management of the species vs. implemented and future efforts for conservation due to human interference and climate change
Synopsis
The Atlantic Walrus: Multidisciplinary Insights Into Human-Animal Interactions addresses the key dimensions of long-term human-walrus interactions across the Atlantic Arctic and subarctic regions over the past four thousand years. This book brings together research from across the social and natural sciences to explore walrus biology, human culture, environmental conditions and their reciprocal effects. Together, the thirteen chapters reconstruct the early evolution of walruses, walrus biology, the cultural significance and ecological impact of prehistoric and indigenous hunting practices as well as the effects of commercial hunting and international trade. The book also examines historic and ongoing management strategies, the importance of new research methodologies in revealing hitherto unknown details of the past, and concludes by discussing the future for Atlantic walruses in face of climate change and increased human activities in the Arctic.
This volume is an ideal resource for those seeking to understand an iconic Arctic species and its long and complex relationship with humans. This includes individuals and researchers with a personal or professional connection to walruses or the Arctic, as well as marine biologists, zoologists, conservationists, paleontologists, archaeologists, anthropologists, historians, indigenous communities, natural resource managers and government agencies.