Wetlands

Wetlands occupy some six per cent of the Earth's land surface. They vary from fens and freshwater marshes to tropical mangroves and tundra swamps. They perform vital hydrological, chemical and biological roles and contain unique and diverse forms of wildlife and habitat. They are disappearing at an alarming rate and are threatened by both the direct and indirect effects of human activity. The purpose of this book of especially commissioned articles is threefold: (a) to explore the occurrence and composition of wetlands and their physical and biological dynamics; (b) to consider the impact upon them of agriculture, industry, urbanisation and recreation; and (c) to examine what steps can be taken to manage and to preserve their future survival.

Preface. Acknowledgements. 1. Understanding Wetlands: Michael Williams (Oriel College, Oxford University). 2. Wetland Hydronamics, Morphology and Sedimentation: Antony Orme (University of California, Los Angeles). 3. Soils and Ecology: Temperate Wetlands: Peter D. Moore (King's College, London). 4. Soils and Ecology: Tropical Wetlands: Thomas V. Armentano (Holcombe Research Institute, Indianapolis). 5. Archaeology and Wetlands: A Wealth of Evidence: Bryony Coles (University of Cambridge). 6. Agricultural Impacts in Temperate Wetlands: Michael Williams (University of Oxford). 7. Agricultural Impact in Tropical Wetlands: John R. Richards (Duke University). 8. Post-industrialization, Urbanization and Wetland Loss: David A. Pinder and Michael Witherick (University of Southampton). 9. Recreation and Wetlands: Impacts, Conflict and Policy Issues: David C. Mercer (Monash University). 10. Wetland Losses and Gains: James G. Gosselink and Edward Maltby (Louisianna State University and University of Exeter). 11. Protection and Retrospection: Michael Williams. The Contributors. Bibliography. Related Titles: List of IBG Special Publications. Index.