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This is the first book which synthesizes the theories of island biogeography and makes plain for the general reader the full implications of the various theories within the subject for conservation efforts the world over. Island biogeography is the study of the distribution of species on islands and island-like patches of landscape. Studies have demonstrated that these ecosystems have always suffered high rates of extinction and also offer the greatest insights into the origin of species. Quammen argues that such theories are important as all the world's landscapes, from Tasmania to the Amazon to Yellowstone, are being carved into island-like fragments by human activity. On a journey lasting eight years, Quammen illuminates this central, but until now, underappreciated environmental issue.
`Quammen weaves a rich and inviting tapestry' - Thomas Lovejoy.
`His knowledge, based on years of research and adventure around the world, is truly impressive. Every page held my attention' - Edward O. Wilson.