Tropical Forest Ecology: The Basis for Conservation and Management [Hardcover]

Research in tropical forestry is confronted with the task of finding strategies to alleviate pressure on remaining forests, and techniques to enhance forest regeneration and restore abandoned lands, using productive alternatives that can be attractive to local human populations. In addition, sustainable forestry in tropical countries must be supported by adequate policies to promote and maintain specific activities at local and regional scales.

Here, a multi-disciplinary approach is presented, to better the understanding of tropical forest ecology, as a necessary step in developing adequate strategies for conservation and management. The authors have long experience in both academic and practical matters related to tropical forest ecology and management.

Importance of Tropical Forests.- Characteristics of Tropical Forests.- Classification of Tropical Forests.- Deforestation in the Tropics.- Management of Tropical Forests.- Plantations and Agroforestry Systems.- Approaches for Implementing Sustainable Management Techniques.- Conclusions.

From the reviews:

As tropical forests might be particularly susceptible to (human) disturbances it is very much appreciated that the results have been bundled into a book which gives an overview about the subject. & the book is suited for a wide array of students with either a forestry, biology or environmental background. The list of references shows a good representation of up to date literature & . the book can be recommended for those readers with an interest of tropical forest ecology & . (Paul Ke?ler, Blumea, Vol. 51 (1) 2006)

This is a much needed textbook on the causes of tropical deforestation and the forestry techniques needed for management and restoration. & This book will be a useful management resource for foresters or a supplementary text for those studying tropical rainforest ecology. (Southeastern Naturalist, Vol. 5 (3), 200lÓ5