Pyramids of Life : Patterns of Life and Death in the Ecosystem

by Croze, Harvey; Reader, John; Dawkins, Richard

• ISBN13: 9781860466137
• ISBN10: 1860466133
• Edition: 2nd
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2000-09-01
• Publisher: Trafalgar Square

Summary

Whatever the outward appearance, nothing in nature is entirely random. There is a natural law through which Harvey Croze and John Reader have identified pyramids of life, relationships which bind together many different species of animals and plants. These pyramids or patterns are repeated a thousand times over as basic forces which determine the order of life on earth. Using the African ecosystem as its model, Croze and Reader's book selects examples from every level of existence, and takes into account both the increasing interference of man in recent years and the emerging science of complex adaptive systems. It is a structured and fascinating exploration of the beauties and mysteries of the living world. Illustrated with more than three hundred photographs,Pyramids of Lifeis an indispensable guide for all those with an interest in ecology and conservation and a beautifully designed portrait of African wildlife and nature.

Table of Contents

Foreword	6	(2)
Introduction	8	(11)
GRASSLANDS
Primary production	19	(27)
Herbivores	46	(67)
Carnivores	113	(34)
Decomposers	147	(8)
LAKES & RIVERS
Primary production	155	(13)
Herbivores	168	(13)
Carnivores	181	(25)
Decomposers	206	(9)
FORESTS
Primary production	215	(32)
Herbivores	247	(21)
Carnivores	268	(24)
Decomposers	292	(2)
Endnotes	294	(6)
Bibliography	300	(2)
Index	302	(2)
Acknowledgements	304