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Serengeti

Dynamics of an Ecosystem

Originally published in 1979, Serengeti: Dynamics of an Ecosystem was immediately recognized as the first synthesis of the patterns and processes of a major ecosystem. A prototype for initial studies, Serengeti contains baseline data for further and comparative studies of ecosystems. The new Serengeti II builds on the information presented originally in Serengeti; both books together offer essential information and insights for ecology and conservation biology.

397 pages | 45 plates | 6-3/4 x 9-1/2 | © 1979

Biological Sciences: Ecology, Natural History

Reviews

“The editors of this volume have drawn together a number of experienced ecologists who have attempted to view their research within the broad framework of the Serengeti ecosystem. The book represents one of the most complete and thought-provoking attempts to analyze an African grassland ecosystem to date and will be a valuable source for all students and researchers engaged in the study of ecology in the tropics. Above all, perhaps, we may hope that as a result of the appearance of this valuable volume the work of the Serengeti Research Institute will not die.”

Science

“Exceptional research coverage of this ecosystem.”

Animal Behaviour

Table of Contents

Preface
Acknowledgments
1: Dynamics of the Serengeti Ecosystem: Process and Pattern
A. R. E. Sinclair
2: The Serengeti Environment
A. R. E. Sinclair
3: Grassland-Herbivore Dynamics
S. J. McNaughton
4: The Eruption of the Ruminants
A. R. E. Sinclair
5: The "Migration" and Grazing Succession
Linda Maddock
6: Feeding Strategy and the Pattern of Resource-Partitioning in Ungulates
P. J. Jarman, A. R. E. Sinclair.
7: Energy Costs of Locomotion and the Concept of "Foraging Radius"
C. J. Pennycuick
8: The Dynamics of Ungulate Social Organization
P. J. Jarman, M. V. Jarman.
9: Serengeti Predators and Their Social Systems
Brian C. R. Bertram
10: Population Changes in Lions and Other Predators
J. P. Hanby, J. D. Bygott.
11: The Adaptations of Scavengers
D. C. Houston
12: A Simulation of the Wildebeest Population, Other Ungulates, and Their Predators
Ray Hilborn, A. R. E. Sinclair.
13: The Influence of Grazing, Browsing, and Fire on the Vegetation Dynamics of the Serengeti
M. Norton-Griffiths
Appendix A: Changes in Populations of Resident Ungulates
J. J. R. Grimsdelt
Appendix B: Scientific and Common Names of Serengeti Mammal and Bird Species Mentioned in the Text
Appendix C: Bibliography of Serengeti Scientific Publications
Index

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