Complex Population Dynamics: A Theoretical/Empirical Synthesis (MPB-35)

Description

Why do organisms become extremely abundant one year and then seem to disappear a few years later? Why do population outbreaks in particular species happen more or less regularly in certain locations, but only irregularly (or never at all) in other locations? Complex population dynamics have fascinated biologists for decades. By bringing together mathematical models, statistical analyses, and field experiments, this book offers a comprehensive synthesis of the theory of population oscillations. Peter Turchin first reviews the conceptual tools that ecologists use to investigate population oscillations, introducing population modelling and the statistical analysis of time series data. He then provides an in-depth discussion of several case studies - including the larch budmoth, southern pine beetle, red grouse, voles and lemmings, snowshoe hare, and ungulates - to develop a new analysis of the mechanisms that drive population oscillations in nature. Through such work, the author argues, ecologists can develop general laws of population dynamics that will help turn ecology into a truly quantitative and predictive science. "Complex Population Dynamics" integrates theoretical and empiric

Peter Turchin is Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Connecticut. He is the author of "Quantitative Analysis of Movement" and more than sixty scientific articles, including several in "Nature and Science".

"Turchin has to be congratulated for the conceptual clarity of the book... I especially recommend the book's first two parts to anyone interested in how to model and analyze population fluctuations... Turchin offers researchers and students alike interesting material and a great deal to think about."--Esa Ranta, Science "This book contributes profoundly to the literature... [It] may have a huge impact on the field."--Nils Chr. Stenseth, Nature "A superbly written text offering many fresh insights both pragmatic and profound... Throughout the book, Turchin manages to present complex material in an informal style with clarity and eloquence."--Douglas H. Deutschman, Ecology