An Introduction to Molecular Ecology

by Trevor J.C. Beebee, Graham Rowe

How do we know whether a particular species is monogamous or promiscuous? How can we monitor the illegal trafficking of wildlife? How can we differentiate between the many similar species making up a microbial community? An Introduction to Molecular Ecology introduces the latest molecular concepts and techniques, demonstrating how genetic markers and molecular tools can be used to answer such ecological questions. Such questions, whose answers were previously out of our reach, can now be probed, thereby revolutionizing our understanding of ecological systems and phenomena.

Blending conceptual detail with the most instructive examples, An Introduction to Molecular Ecology is an ideal resource for those new to the subject needing to develop a strong working understanding of the field. The book captures the broad scope of the subject, exploring the use of molecular tools in the context of topics including behavioral genetics, phylogeography, microbial ecology, and conservation.

Features


· Demonstrates the power of molecular ecology as a research tool in a style ideally suited for an undergraduate audience


· Uses practical examples to demonstrate the latest methods and concepts rather than relying exclusively on theoretical models


· Blends factual content with tools for active learning

Genres: Biology, Science, Ecology

416 pages, Paperback

First published March 25, 2004

Reviews

[Jared · Rating 3 out of 5]

This edition seemed merely a reshuffling of the previous one. There was not a lot of updated info despite the major advances and expansion in the field. The author has not attempted to incorporate new technological advances (e.g. high-throughput sequencing) nor does the author have a good grasp of the major trends in software used in the field. Most of the software programs recommended by the author were obscure. I knew of better programs more robust and more widely accepted than the ones he recommended. While there is a glut of software programs out there and researchers have a lot to choose from this was definitely not a strong part of the book. However, it is a good introduction to the field and gets the basics going. The last chapter on GMOs need to be dropped. To end a book about such a rapidly expanding field on such a mundane topic is a major letdown.