A Synthesis of the Galápagos

Sinopse

There are hundreds of books and thousands of scientific articles about the Galápagos. This volume is distinctive. The authors, Guillermo Paz-y-Miño-C and Avelina Espinosa, synthesize, integrate, and conceptualize the most recent evolutionary-biology research being conducted in the archipelago’s terrestrial and aquatic environments; the conflicts resulting from human interactions with nature, including local population growth and tourism practices in the context of short- and long-term conservation efforts; and make predictions about the destiny of the Galápagos’ unique biodiversity and landscapes under various scenarios of climate-change impacts, urbanization trends, diversification of tourism, and conservation investments.

Offering over 260 figures and diagrams, this work will appeal to a broad audience, including professors in academia, college instructors, postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and research undergraduates. Another target audience is study-abroad and international field-trip instructors and their students who travel to the Galápagos year-round. Science writers and policymakers will find in this book useful information to discuss and debate about imminent environmental threats to afflict the Galápagos as a consequence of human population growth, tourism practices, and climate change.

This is a book that takes you on an enlightening journey to the Enchanted Islands, the first World Natural Heritage Site declared by UNESCO. The authors apply important lessons from the past to what the islands experience today, with respect to both their evolutionary processes and social conflicts. This is a great volume for scientists, naturalists, and those who love the environment and are passionate about protecting fragile ecosystems. A must-have and read book! Arturo Izurieta-Valery, PhD, Former Director of Galápagos National Park, Santa Cruz Island