This is pretty vague request, which perhaps is indicative of the confusion
surrounding theoretical ecology. Ecological theory covers many aspects, from
the descriptive to the highly mathematical. Does Ted want to learn about
trophic levels and competitive coexistence, or does he want to construct
Leslie matrices? Some books stick with analytic models like the
Lotka-Volterra equations, while others are based on numerical simulation.
Many of the books are really math books based on ecological examples, but
the real essence of theoretical ecology is not the mathematics, but the
insight into the processes that govern ecosystems.
Bill Silvert
----- Original Message -----
From: "Ted Hart" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 19, 2008 9:35 PM
Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Good theoretical ecology book.
Hello ecologgers.
I'm curious if anyone had any opinions on a good theoretical ecology
books out there. One I've come across is Ted Case's 2000 book An
Illustrated Guide to Theoretical Ecology. But before I spend $60 I
thought I'd ask around. Looking for something relatively accessible to
an ecologist with a mathematical bend, but not much formal training in
math. So something like May's seminal book is a bit over my head.
Thanks for any input.
