In its first English-language edition this book introduces the many-faceted interactions of
animal populations with their habitats. From soil fauna ants and termites to small and large
herbivores burrowing mammals and birds the author presents a comprehensive analysis of
animals and ecosystems that is as broad and varied as all nature. Chapter 2 addresses the
functional role of animals in landscape ecosystems emphasizing fluxes of energy and matter
within and between ecosystems and the effects of animals on qualitative and structural habitat
change. Discussion includes chapters on the role of animal population density and the impacts
of native herbivores on vegetation and habitats from the tropics to the polar regions. Cyclic
mass outbreaks of species such as the larch bud moth in Switzerland the mountain pine beetle
and the African red-billed weaver bird are described and analyzed. Other chapters discuss
Zoochory ¿ the dispersal of seeds by ants mammals and birds ¿ and the influence of burrowing
animals on soil development and geomorphology. Consideration extends to the impact of feral
domestic animals. Chapter 5 focuses on problems resulting from introduction of alien animals
and from re-introduction of animal species to their original habitats discusses the effects on
ecosystems of burrowing digging and trampling by animals. The author also addresses keystone
species such as kangaroo rats termites and beavers. Chapter 6 addresses the role of animals in
landscape management and nature conservation with chapters on the impact of newcomer species
such as animals introduced into Australia New Zealand and Europe and the consequences of
reintroduction of species to original habitat. It also discusses the carrying capacity of
natural habit public attitudes toward conversation and more. The final section ponders the
effects of climate on interactions between animals and their habitats.
