This text introduces the key elements of the dynamic, multidisciplinary field of conservation biology. In a concise format, the "Primer" highlights the material treated in detail in the 1998 textbook "Essentials of Conservation Biology", second edition. It incorporates background, theory, and examples in a lively and readable text that should appeal to a wide audience and stimulate interest consevation biology. The book provides perspectives on issues in the field such as sustainable development, the effectiveness of conservation laws and treaties, the design of conservation areas, classification of conservation threats, and strategies to save species on the verge of extinction.
ContentsPART 1: CONSERVATION BIOLOGY AND BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY
Interdisciplinary Conservation Methods: A Case Study
What Is Conservation Biology?
What Is Biological Diversity?
The Distribution of Biological Diversity
Extinction and Economics: Losing Something of Value
Direct Economic Values
Indirect Economic Values
Ethical Considerations
Summary
PART 2: THREATS TO BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY
Rates of Extinction
Causes of Extinction
Habitat Fragmentation
Habitat Degradation and Pollution
Overexploitation
Exotic Species
Disease
Vulnerability to Extinction
Summary
PART 3: CONSERVATION AT THE POPULATION AND SPECIES LEVELS
The Problems of Small Populations
Natural History and Ecology
Establishment of New Populations
Ex Situ Conservation Strategies
Conservation Categories of Species
Legal Protection of Species
Summary
PART 4: CONSERVATION AT THE COMMUNITY LEVEL
Protected Areas
Establishing Priorities for Protection
Designing Protected Areas
Managing Protected Areas
Conservation Outside Protected Areas
Restoration Ecology
Summary
PART 5: CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Government Action
Traditional Societies and Biological Diversity
International Approaches to Conservation and Sustainable Development
An Agenda for the Future
Summary