Wetland environments: a global perspective

Wetlands - swamp, marsh, bayou, tundra and bog - are places that are rarely visited and often misunderstood but they have, in fact, conspicuous roles in the physical, biological and cultural geography of the world. They are intrinsically beautiful environments where one may see the natural and essential valuesin the interaction of water, soil, vegetation, wildlife, and humans. Wetlandsoccur at the confluence of unique terrestrial, hydrological and climatic conditions that give rise to some of the most biodiverse regions of the world. They also play vital roles in the cycling and storage of key nutrients, materialsand energy through the Earth’s system. A complete study of wetland environments requires the assessment of their physical and biological attributes, properties and functions of these ecosystems, and the economic, political and socialaspects that mediate their use globally. A systems approach is taken throughout this book which emphasizes the interactions between these elements of wetland ecosystems. Moreover, selected case studies from across the world are used to illustrate wetland characteristics and circumstances. This book is intendedto foster a greater awareness and appreciation of wetlands, promote a cultureof conservation and wise management, and spread the knowledge that wetlands are important, indeed crucial, elements of the global environment. Our attemptsto understand, manage and enhance wetlands in the twenty-first century are part of the larger effort to maintain a sustainable Earth. Readership: Introductory or intermediate level undergraduates taking courses on wetland environments Additional resources for this book can be found at: www.wiley.com/go/aber/wetland .

• ISBN: 978-1-4051-9841-7
• Editorial: Wiley-Blackwell
• Encuadernacion: Cartoné
• Páginas: 440
• Fecha Publicación: 21/09/2012
• Nº Volúmenes: 1
• Idioma: Inglés