Why Ecology Matters

by Charles J. Krebs

Global temperatures and seawater levels rise; the world’s smallest porpoise species looms at the edge of extinction; and a tiny emerald beetle from Japan flourishes in North America—but why does it matter? Who cares? With this concise, accessible, and up-to-date book, Charles J. Krebs answers critics and enlightens students and environmental advocates alike, revealing not why phenomena like these deserve our attention, but why they demand it.

Highlighting key principles in ecology—from species extinction to the sun’s role in powering ecosystems—each chapter introduces a general question, illustrates that question with real-world examples, and links it to pressing ecological issues in which humans play a central role, such as the spread of invasive species, climate change, overfishing, and biodiversity conservation. While other introductions to ecology are rooted in complex theory, math, or practice and relegate discussions of human environmental impacts and their societal implications to sidebars and appendices, Why Ecology Matters interweaves these important discussions throughout. It is a book rooted in our contemporary world, delving into ecological issues that are perennial, timeless, but could not be more timely.

208 pages, Paperback

First published March 7, 2016

Reviews

[Ryan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book really felt like the reference text to an introduction to ecology class in college, likely compiled from a series of lectures and course slides from the author. Basic concepts in population ecology, succession, invasive species, trophic cascades, nutrient cycles and energy flows to name several areas, were described in very short chapters each, with case studies and diagrams. I suppose for those with no prior knowledge of ecology it would be some what interesting, but definitely not for most nature lovers who should already be familiar with the subject. In this respect, if the book had been aimed at the general reading public a more catchy title would have worked better than the current one. Oh and some color photos would have been great too.

[Ietrio · Rating 1 out of 5]

Krebs is another academic leech who would like to get invited to any popular show like some of his paper pushers. So the text is a boring rehash of other texts, but hopefully the producers of radio shows won't know.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

concise and interesting content

[Mafalda · Rating 2 out of 5]

Had to read for my bio class. Honestly writing style was not too bad, but there were missing tropes. So long and no steamy romance? No enemies to lovers? But disappointed, but Wind cells slay