Ecology and Ecosystem Conservation

"Reading this book has been rewarding—there were no disappointments. Schmitz has done a credible job of presenting the complex and multifaceted field of ecology in a compact and readable book ... I believe this book is an important contribution toward a better understanding and treatment of our environment, and could be used to enlighten a larger audience of non-ecologists." * Natural Areas Journal *
"A wonderfully readable introduction to the ecological context for conservation practice. Ideal for a general readership or as the basis for an excellent university course."---Simon Levin, Princeton University, author of Fragile Dominion
"At last, one volume seamlessly merges the dominant ecological themes of our time into a single coherent explanation of why the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystems is the key to solving today's most pressing environmental problems."---Shahid Naeem, Professor of ecology, Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology
"Starting from concrete examples and questions in the field of conservation biology, this book presents the principles of modern ecology in a simple form accessible to all. It is easy and enjoyable to read, while at the same time scientifically rigorous. An excellent introduction to ecology as the scientific underpinning of conservation biology."---Michel Loreau, Professor, Canada Research Chair in Theoretical Ecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec