Synopsis
There has never been a more important time to understand our marine environment. Oceans influence our climate and provide a valuable source of food to billions of people. They are vital to our very existence, and they are under threat. Clearly written and beautifully illustrated, Marine Ecology: Processes, Systems, and Impacts addresses the fundamental global processes of primary and microbial production that characterize marine systems before going on to detail the diverse systems we see around the world: from coral reefs to polar regions; from the shores to the deep sea. The third section of the book, 'Impacts', tackles some of the most pressing environmental issues relevant to marine ecology, including climate change, conservation, pollution, disturbance, the impact of fisheries, and aquaculture. New to this edition: A new chapter on 'Climate Change' equips you to think more deeply about climate-related issues by explaining the mechanisms through which oceans respond to the altering climate, A new chapter on 'Sea and Society' delves into the economic and sociological relationship between human beings and the ocean, helping you to fully understand the value of marine ecosystems to mankind and how to manage this relationship responsibly, A comprehensive update of the 'Microbial Production' chapter has re-organised and refreshed the scientific material presented to give a thorough grounding in the chemical principles that inform key microbial processes in marine ecology Book jacket., Striking full colour illustrations and photographs bring this integrated and stimulating survey of marine ecology to life. Through its unique structure, Marine Ecology: Processes, Systems, and Impacts offers a systems-orientated approach from a truly modern and global perspective. The text introduces key processes and systems from which the marine environment is formed and the issues and challenges which surround its future. Opening with an overview of the processes and interactions which are central to an understanding of marine ecology, the book goes on to explore the diverse systems from which the marine environment is composed, from estuaries to seabeds, the deep sea to polar regions. Detailed case studies form the basis of the pedagogy, highlighting issues from a diverse range of marine systems in a digestible way. In this third edition, more of an emphasis is placed on climate change and looking towards future challenges, since the importance of understanding and conserving the marine environment has never been more apparent. There is also a new chapter on the value of the ocean to society which discusses key topics such as natural capital and food security. Marine Ecology: Processes, Systems, and Impacts is a carefully balanced, positive and considered text, containing measures that can be taken to mitigate adverse effects on this complex, fragile environment. It is an essential resource for any student wishing to develop a well-balanced, informed understanding of this fascinating subject., Striking full colour illustrations and photographs bring this integrated and stimulating survey of marine ecology to life. Through its unique structure, Marine Ecology: Processes, Systems, and Impacts offers a systems-orientated approach from a truly modern and global perspective.The text introduces key processes and systems from which the marine environment is formed and the issues and challenges which surround its future. Opening with an overview of the processes and interactions which are central to an understanding of marine ecology, the book goes on to explore the diverse systems from which the marine environment is composed, from estuaries to seabeds, the deep sea to polar regions. Detailed case studies form the basis of the pedagogy, highlighting issues from a diverse range of marine systems in a digestible way.In this third edition, more of an emphasis is placed on climate change and looking towards future challenges, since the importance of understanding and conserving the marine environment has never been more apparent. There is also a new chapter on the value of the ocean to society which discusses key topics such as natural capital and food security.Marine Ecology: Processes, Systems, and Impacts is a carefully balanced, positive and considered text, containing measures that can be taken to mitigate adverse effects on this complex, fragile environment. It is an essential resource for any student wishing to develop a well-balanced, informed understanding of this fascinating subject., Marine Ecology: Processes, Systems, and Impacts offers a carefully balanced and stimulating survey of marine ecology, introducing the key processes and systems from which the marine environment is formed, and the issues and challenges which surround its future conservation.