Book description
Wetlands - swamp, marsh, bayou, tundra and bog - are places that are
rarely visited and often misunderstood but they have, in fact,
conspicuous roles in the physical, biological and cultural geography of
the world.? They are intrinsically beautiful environments where one may
see the natural and essential values in the interaction of water, soil,
vegetation, wildlife, and humans.? Wetlands occur at the confluence of
unique terrestrial, hydrological and climatic conditions that give rise
to some of the most biodiverse regions of the world.? They also play
vital roles in the cycling and storage of key nutrients, materials and
energy through the Earth?s system.
A complete study of wetland environments requires the assessment of
their physical and biological attributes, properties and functions of
these ecosystems, and the economic, political and social aspects that
mediate their use globally.? A systems approach is taken throughout
this book which emphasizes the interactions between these elements of
wetland ecosystems.? Moreover, selected case studies from across the
world are used to illustrate wetland characteristics and circumstances.?
This book is intended to foster a greater awareness and appreciation
of wetlands, promote a culture of conservation and wise management,
and spread the knowledge that wetlands are important, indeed crucial,
elements of the global environment.? Our attempts to understand,
manage and enhance wetlands in the twenty-first century are part of
the larger effort to maintain a sustainable Earth.
Readership: Introductory or intermediate level undergraduates
taking courses on wetland environments
Additional resources for this book can be found at: www. wiley.
com/go/aber/wetland.
James S. Aber: Ph. D. in Geology from the
University of Kansas. Wide-ranging international experience in
northern and central Europe, North and South America involving
glaciation, wetlands, tectonics, and remote sensing.
Firooza Pavri: Ph. D. in Geography from Ohio State University.
Research experience in South Asia and North America with an interest
in society-environment interactions, landscape change, environmental
policy, and remote sensing.
Susan W. Aber: Ph. D in Library and Information Management from
Emporia State University, Kansas. International experience across
Europe, southeastern Asia and North America. Special interest in
gemstones, particularly amber and pearls.
