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Very Short Introductions #477
Savannas: A Very Short Introduction
Savannas form one of the largest and most important of the world's ecological zones. Covering one fifth of the Earth's land surface, they are home to some of the world's most iconic animals and form an extremely important global resource for plants and wildlife. However, increasing recognition of their land potential means that they are extremely vulnerable to accelerating pressures on usable land.
This Very Short Introduction considers savannas as landscapes. Discussing their origin, topography, and global distribution, Peter A. Furley explores the dynamic nature of savannas and illustrates how they have shaped human evolution and movements. He goes on to discuss the unrelenting pressures that confront conservation and management and considers the future for savannas.
ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.
This Very Short Introduction considers savannas as landscapes. Discussing their origin, topography, and global distribution, Peter A. Furley explores the dynamic nature of savannas and illustrates how they have shaped human evolution and movements. He goes on to discuss the unrelenting pressures that confront conservation and management and considers the future for savannas.
ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.
- GenresScience
176 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2016
3 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
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September 4, 2022
Savanna covers vast areas on land and creates 3rd largest biome after tropical and temperate forests. Much of it primary production is lost to decomposition (and ultimately dispersed as heat), only 10% supports animals. Still, it’s vital for the entire ecosystem. It supports the iconic migrations of 2M+ animals in Africa. In Madagascar, a single baobab tree can hold 100,000 liter water.Today, Savanna destruction is prevalent. About 2/3 already transformed. But it’s not getting the same attention as rainforest destruction does. Savanna landscape usually does not attract human settlements. But in recent decades population explosion: Burkina Faso 4 to 14 millions in 55years; Niger 2.5-13M; Tanzania 7.5 to 40M.
Four major concerns for the future of savannas: 1. Sea level rise can cause coastal savanna flooding; 2. food production-trigged increased desiccation threatens all plant growth; 3. reduced biodiversity (e.g., in Brazil 50% of vegetation is removed for planted pasture); and 4. urban expansion.
Four major concerns for the future of savannas: 1. Sea level rise can cause coastal savanna flooding; 2. food production-trigged increased desiccation threatens all plant growth; 3. reduced biodiversity (e.g., in Brazil 50% of vegetation is removed for planted pasture); and 4. urban expansion.
Displaying 1 of 1 review