Fern Ecology [Paperback]

Explores worldwide research on the ecology of ferns, highlighting the integral role ferns play in many ecosystems.The first in-depth summary of the ecology of ferns, with fully-illustrated examples from throughout the world, showing the ecological importance of ferns and their role in conservation, succession and restoration. The book provides a framework for future research for graduate students and professionals in ecology, conservation and land management.The first in-depth summary of the ecology of ferns, with fully-illustrated examples from throughout the world, showing the ecological importance of ferns and their role in conservation, succession and restoration. The book provides a framework for future research for graduate students and professionals in ecology, conservation and land management.Ferns are an integral part of the worlds flora, appreciated for their beauty as ornamentals, problematic as invaders and endangered by human interference. They often dominate forest understories, but also colonize open areas, invade waterways, and survive nutrient-poor wastelands and eroded pastures. This is the first comprehensive summary of fern ecology, with worldwide examples from Siberia to Hawaii. Topics include a brief history of the ecological study of ferns, their biogeography and population dynamics, their role in ecosystem nutrient cycles and adaptations to xeric environments, and their responses to disturbance and interactions with other organisms. Fully illustrated concepts provide a framework for students and professionals in ecology, conservation, and land management, and a wealth of information for anyone interested in ferns.1. Ecological importance of ferns Joanne M. Sharpe, Klaus Mehltreter and Lawrence R. Walker; 2. Biogeography of ferns Michael Kessler; 3. Ecological insights from fern population dynamics Joanne M. Sharpe and Klaus Mehltreter; 4. Nutrient ecology of ferns Sarah J. Richardson and Lawrence R. Walker; 5. Fern adaptations to xeric envirl3>