An Introduction to Conservation Biology – eBook

In An Introduction to Conservation Biology (PDF), a new coauthor Anna Sher joins longtime author Richard Primack in creating an ebook that combines the readability of Primack’s A Primer of Conservation Biology with the depth and coverage of his larger textbook, Essentials of Conservation Biology. The result is a textbook well suited for a wide range of undergraduate courses, as both a primary textbook for conservation biology courses and a supplement for ecological and environmental science courses.

Using the chapter framework of the current Primer as a springboard, the authors have added 3 chapters focused on population biology conservation tools (Chapter 7), future of conservation (Chapter 12) and restoration ecology (Chapter 10). Sustainable development, ex situ conservation, and other key topics have been updated and expanded with hundreds of new explanations, citations, examples, and figures to enhance learning and excitement for the subject. Mining her experience teaching conservation biology with Dr. Primack’s textbooks for over a decade, Dr. Sher fine-tunes the presentation of difficult concepts, particularly in politics and economics. Coverage of recent conservation biology events in the news — such as the poaching of Cecil the lion, the international Paris Accord on climate change and the first papal encyclical on the environment, keeps the content current and very fresh.

The ebook’s 12 chapters (see Contents) focus successively on biological diversity and its value; conservation at the population and species levels; protecting, managing and restoring ecosystems; threats to biological diversity; and sustainable development. Every chapter begins with general ideas and principles, beautifully illustrated in full colour with diverse examples from the current literature. Chapters end with summaries, discussion questions, an annotated list of suggested readings, and extensive summary statements in the text margins, as study aids. Throughout, the authors maintain a focus on the active role that scientists, conservation organizations, government, local people, and the general public play in protecting biodiversity, even while providing for human needs.

Note: This purchase only includes An Introduction to Conservation Biology PDF. No online resources or codes are included