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The Theory of Island Biogeography (Princeton Landmarks in Biology S.) (2nd Revised edition) ISBN: 0691088365 ISBN13: 9780691088365 The Theory of Island Biogeography (Princeton Landmarks in Biology S.) (2nd Revised edition) By: Robert Helmer MacArthur ; Edward O. Wilson Publisher: Princeton University Press Format: Paperback Our Price: 24.79 Discount: 8% RRP: 26.95

Biogeography was stuck in a natural history phase dominated by the collection of data, the young Princeton biologists Robert H. MacArthur and Edward O. Wilson argued in 1967. In this book the authors developed a general theory to explain the facts of island biogeography. The theory builds on the first principles of population ecology and genetics to explain how distance and area combine to regulate the balance between immigration and extinction in island populations. The authors then test the theory against data. The Theory of Island Biogeography was never intended as the last word on the subject. Instead, MacArthur and Wilson sought to stimulate new forms of theoretical and empirical studies, which will lead in turn to a stronger general theory. Even a third of a century since its publication, the book continues to serve that purpose well. From popular books like David Quammen's Song of the Dodo to arguments in the profeessional literature. The Theory of Island Biogeography remains at the center of discussions about the geographic distribution of species. In a new preface, Edward O. Wilson reviews the origins and consequences of this classic book.


Contents:

Preface to the Princeton Landmarks in Biology Edition vii Preface xi Symbols Used xiii 1

The Importance of Islands 3 2

Area and Number of Speicies 8 3

Further Explanations of the Area-Diversity Pattern 19 4

The Strategy of Colonization 68 5

Invasibility and the Variable Niche 94 6

Stepping Stones and Biotic Exchange 123 7

Evolutionary Changes Following Colonization 145 8

Prospect 181 Glossary 185 References 193 Index 201


Brief Description:

This work develops a general theory to explain the facts of island biogeography. The theory builds on the first principles of population ecology and genetics to explain how distance and area combine to regulate the balance between immigration and extinction in island populations.

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