The Florida Manatee: Biology and Conservation

Reep, Roger L.; Bonde, Robert K.

ISBN 10: 081302949X / ISBN 13: 9780813029498

Published by University Press of Florida, 2006

Former library book; Pages can have notes/highlighting. Spine may show signs of wear. ~ ThriftBooks: Read More, Spend Less. Seller Inventory # G081302949XI3N10

Synopsis:

Roger Reep and Robert Bonde, veteran researchers with 45 years' experience between them, have created an instantly engaging, accessible tale of the mysterious manatee for professionals and interested lay people alike. Having played integral roles in many of the research efforts discussed in the book, Reep and Bonde humanize the sometimes difficult-to-grasp characteristics of manatee biology, their relation to the environment, and the biopolitics that result from the intersection of science and wildlife management. They weave fact with real-life scenarios to explain what science has learned about this unusual animal - from microorganisms that cause manatee die-offs during red tide blooms to the complexity of long-distance migrations to the curiosities of manatee physiology. The evolutionary basis of the sirenian language (how manatees communicate with each other) is also revealed. Technological innovations and conservation efforts since the landmark protection legislation of the early 1970s are also central to the manatee story. Captive rehabilitation, radio tracking, and advanced boating regulations are discussed as methods to ensure manatee survival. Reep and Bonde argue that increasing interaction between man and manatee, most notably through the shared use of waterways, makes ongoing scientific research essential if successful coexistence is to be possible.

About the Author: Roger Reep is a neuroscientist and professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Florida. He was lead organizer for the First International Manatee and Dugong Research Conference, and for the Florida Marine Mammal Health Conference. Bob Bonde is a biologist with the U.S. Geological Survey Sirenia Project.

Bibliographic Details

Title: The Florida Manatee: Biology and Conservation
Publisher: University Press of Florida
Publication Date: 2006
Binding: Hardcover
Condition: Good
Dust Jacket Condition: No Jacket