Destruction of natural habitats causes wholesale loss of species, but fragmentation of habitats into island-like patches also has serious implications for species survival and diversity. What size, number and relationship of these reserves to each other and surrounding human populations are necessary to support viable wildlife populations?
In this major work, Shafer reviews the literature on island biogeography and related subjects, pulling data from a wide variety of disciplines, and produces basic guidelines for the conservation of fragmented habitats. An invaluable text for reserve managers, planners and others with conservation responsibilities.