Book Review

by Paul Ganderton

Spellerberg L (ed.). 1996. Conservation Biology. Longman. pp xiii +242. ISBN 0 582 228654.

There has been a spate of conservation biology texts in the last two years. Most follow a biological/ecological fine: this book attempts something diffierent. The aim here is to cover not only ecology but also the surrounding fields of expertise which make up this multidisciplinary study. Ile book is divided into three. 'Me first part, with all 3 chapters by the editor, examines some of the key issues of the subject - themes and concepts and biological diversity (both changes in and the conservation of). Part two, titled conservation biology in perspective, covers an impressive range of subjects: politics and economics, legislation, strategies, education, abiotic factors and taxonomy. This leaves part three, conservation biology in practice, to look at the basic ecological aspects (genetics, populations, habitats, communities) and include rarer topics like ex-situ conservation, restoration and risk analysis. Although not heavily illustrated the text is laid out in a clear style. Each chapter has a list of references where issues can be followed.

The one thing that makes this book stand out is the range of topics tackled. lle ecology material is standard but some ideas, like education and risk, although studied are far less commonly seen in texts. Although some of the material is best suited to BE audiences' there's a great deal for both school student and teacher. In this respect, part 1 and chapters such as 5, legislation, are best. Those running resource management courses or modules would find that this text repays study.