An Illustrated Guide to Theoretical Ecology uses a combination of visual presentations and the symbolic logic of algebra and calculus to provide the most accessible introduction to ecological theory available. It gives students the basic tools they need to understand the complexities ofecological systems and to analyze simple quantitative ecological problems. The author walks students through the most common models in ecology, beginning with first principles and then gently making each formulation accessible through a step-by-step development of equations paired with lavishillustrations. He also applies theoretical developments to practical issues in conservation and resource management, offering a more visceral understanding of the purpose and utility of the theory and demonstrating how it may need modification in its application to real-world problems and futuredirections. The text also includes some basic ecological genetics and an exploration of metapopulation dynamics. An Illustrated Guide to Theoretical Ecology is enhanced by over 500 two-color diagrams, many end-of-chapter problems, and a website that includes simulation models that parallel each chapters development (http://www.nceas.ucsb.edu/BookCase). Ideal as a main text for advanced undergraduatecourses in theoretical and mathematical ecology or conservation biology, this unique book can also serve as a supplement or a self-guided tutorial in general ecology, population ecology, and community ecology courses.

Preface

ix

Part 1: Population Ecology

Exponential and Geometric Population Growth

1

(14)

Modeling Population Growth

1

(8)

Exponential Growth: R Versus r

9

(1)

Problem (Advanced)

10

(5)

Spatial, Temporal, and Individual Variation in Birth and Death Rates

15

(30)

Movements and Population Growth

15

(11)

Spatial Variation

26

(4)

Individual Variation and Temporal Variation

30

(15)

Population Growth with Age or Stage Structure

45

(34)

Keeping Track of the Size of Each Age Group

45

(9)

Some Examples of Survival and Birth Functions

54

(2)

The Birth Pulse Relative to the Beginning of the Year

56

(2)

Cohort Analysis and an Alternative Method for Forming the Leslie Matrix

58

(4)

Problems

62

(2)

Leslie Matrix Formation and a New Trick

64

(2)

λ is the Dominant Eigenvalue of the Leslie Matrix (ADVANCED)

66

(6)

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An Illustrated Guide to Theoretical Ecology

9780195085129

0195085124

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Summary

Table of Contents

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