Abstract

The third edition of Insect Ecology: An Ecosystem Approach provides a modern perspective of insect ecology that integrates two approaches traditionally used to study insect ecology: evolutionary and ecosystem. This integration substantially broadens the scope of insect ecology and contributes to prediction and resolution of the effects of current environmental changes, as these affect and are affected by insects. The third edition includes an updated and expanded synthesis of feedback and interactions between insects and their environment. This updated material and a new chapter on applications of insect ecology to social and environmental issues effectively demonstrates how evolutionary and ecosystem approaches complement each other, with the intent of stimulating further integration of these approaches in experiments that address insect roles in ecosystems. Effective management of ecosystem resources depends on evaluation of the complex, often complementary, effects of insects on ecosystem conditions, as well as insect responses to changing conditions.

• Timely revision of a key reference on insect ecology
• Full coverage of ecosystem structure and function balanced with essential background on evolutionary aspects
• New chapter on applications to issues such as pest management, ecosystem restoration, invasive species and environmental changes
• Case studies highlight practical and theoretical applications for topics covered in each chapter

"[This text] is a gem - a complete course in modern ecology from the vantage point of insects in ecological systems...." - Dan Simberloff, University of Tennessee
"Schowalter provides a well-illustrated, comprehensive integration of population, community, and ecosystem ecology that demonstrates the global importance of insects...." - Alan Covich, Institute of Ecology, University of Georgia
"This very stimulating book will interest entomologists and ecologists alike....[Schowalter]gives an excellent overview how insects shape ecosystem functioning...." - Teja Tscharntke, University of Göttingen, Germany
Praise for the first edition:
"Insect Ecology is remarkable for its scope, breadth, and comprehensiveness...Absolutely indispensable for graduate students, faculty, and professionals in entomology and ecology." --CHOICE
"The book is well written and designed. It includes excellent overview and synthesis chapters, and each individual chapter ends with a concise summary. ...I recommend that students, professionals, and amateur entomologists read this excellent volume." -ECOLOGY