Description: Trees are familiar components of many landscapes and have been vital in determining the ecology of our planet as well as the development of human cultures and communities. Yet how much do we really understand about how they work? This updated and revised edition provides a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of tree biology and ecology and presents the state-of-the-art discoveries in this area. The wonders and mysteries of trees are explored throughout the book and questions such as why leaves turn spectacular colours in the autumn, how water reaches the top of the tallest trees, or why the study of genetics has caused so many name changes in trees are all brilliantly answered. Written with a non-technical approach, this book will be a valuable source of reference for students and those with a less formal interest in this fascinating group of plants.
Brief description: Peter Thomas is senior lecturer in botanical and environmental science at Keele University, UK with 30 years of experience in ecological aspects of trees and forest ecology in the UK, North and Central America, Europe, Africa, Russia and Australasia. He has written two other books for Cambridge University Press: Ecology of Woodlands and Forests (with John Packham, 2007) and Fire in the Forest (with Robert S. McAlpine, 2010).
Review Quotes: "A thoughtful and informative book, logically and sequentially set out for anyone with an interest in trees, whether professional or amateur. The reader is guided through the physiological and structural characteristics of the tree, through its life cycle from seed to antiquity and finally to an exploration of the relationship between trees and people ... The text, which flows smoothly with academic rigour, succeeds in communicating in an easy to read fashion for both academic and the non academic. Each section is punctuated with interesting and useful snippets of information from around the world related to the specific chapter topic being discussed and each chapter can be read independently of the others ... The text is well supported by excellent photographs and beautifully drawn graphics which enhance and clarify the subject matter throughout the book ... It is the combination of all the factors above which makes this book so useful and interesting."
Keith Sacre, Barcham Trees