The Ecology and Evolution of Inducible Defenses

Description

Inducible defences are phenotypic shifts in prey activated by biological agents ranging from predators to pathogens. They are widespread in the natural world, and the authors of this book bring together leading researchers from all fields to review common themes and explore emerging ideas. The topics examined include unicellular algae and higher vertebrates, considering defences that range from immune systems to protective changes in morphology, behaviour, chemistry and life history. Case studies and theoretical studies pinpoint unifying factors favouring the evolution of inducible defences. Throughout, the volume emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating applied and theoretical ecology, evolution, genetics and chemistry.

Ralph Tollrian is Assistant Professor of Ecology at the Zoological Institute at Ludwig-Maximilians University in Munich. C. Drew Harvell is Associate Professor in the Section of Ecology and Systematics at Cornell University.

"The book does an excellent job of summarizing what is known about induced defenses."-Robert T. Paine, University of Washington "-A state-of-the-art survey of the empirical and theoretical knowledge about inducible defenses."-Marc Mangel, University of California, Davis "The editors have done an excellent job of drawing together a collection of authors representing a wide range of disciplines."-Mark D. Rausher, Duke University