Tim R. McClanahan and George M. Branch
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195319958
- eISBN:
- 9780199869596
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195319958.003.0009
- Subject:
- Biology, Aquatic Biology
This chapter summarizes what the authors consider to be the key and general organizing principles of kelp forests and coral reefs along gradients of oceanography, latitude, and effects of fishing and ...
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This chapter summarizes what the authors consider to be the key and general organizing principles of kelp forests and coral reefs along gradients of oceanography, latitude, and effects of fishing and resource use on these ecosystems. The general structure of these food webs is described as well as the effects of top-down versus bottom-up controls and the prevalence of trophic cascades. Human effects and recommendations for management are presented.Less
This chapter summarizes what the authors consider to be the key and general organizing principles of kelp forests and coral reefs along gradients of oceanography, latitude, and effects of fishing and resource use on these ecosystems. The general structure of these food webs is described as well as the effects of top-down versus bottom-up controls and the prevalence of trophic cascades. Human effects and recommendations for management are presented.
David N. Thomas, G.E. (Tony) Fogg, Peter Convey, Christian H. Fritsen, Josep-Maria Gili, Rolf Gradinger, Johanna Laybourn-Parry, Keith Reid, and David W.H. Walton
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780199298112
- eISBN:
- 9780191711640
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199298112.003.0003
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
This chapter discusses the terrestrial ecosystems of the Arctic and Antarctic. It begins discussing some of their physical and chemical characteristics and then subsequent subsections detail the ...
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This chapter discusses the terrestrial ecosystems of the Arctic and Antarctic. It begins discussing some of their physical and chemical characteristics and then subsequent subsections detail the ecosystems and their component biota. Topics covered include substrata (exposed rock surfaces, endolithic habitat, rock debris, permafrost, and polar soils); communities of the Continental Antarctic, Maritime Antarctic, High Arctic, Arctic tundra, and Antarctic tundra; the physiological ecology of polar plants and invertebrates, specialized communities; and comparison of Arctic and Antarctic terrestrial habitats and communities.Less
This chapter discusses the terrestrial ecosystems of the Arctic and Antarctic. It begins discussing some of their physical and chemical characteristics and then subsequent subsections detail the ecosystems and their component biota. Topics covered include substrata (exposed rock surfaces, endolithic habitat, rock debris, permafrost, and polar soils); communities of the Continental Antarctic, Maritime Antarctic, High Arctic, Arctic tundra, and Antarctic tundra; the physiological ecology of polar plants and invertebrates, specialized communities; and comparison of Arctic and Antarctic terrestrial habitats and communities.
Edward Ricketts
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520247048
- eISBN:
- 9780520932661
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520247048.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, History of Science, Technology, and Medicine
Trailblazing marine biologist, visionary conservationist, deep ecology philosopher, Edward F. Ricketts (1897–1948) has reached legendary status in the California mythos. A true polymath and a thinker ...
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Trailblazing marine biologist, visionary conservationist, deep ecology philosopher, Edward F. Ricketts (1897–1948) has reached legendary status in the California mythos. A true polymath and a thinker ahead of his time, Ricketts was a scientist who worked in passionate collaboration with many of his friends—artists, writers, and influential intellectual figures—including, perhaps most famously, John Steinbeck, who once said that Ricketts's mind “had no horizons.” This collection, featuring previously unpublished pieces as well as others available for the first time in their original form, reflects the wide scope of Ricketts's scientific, philosophical, and literary interests during the years he lived and worked on Cannery Row in Monterey, California. These writings, which together illuminate the evolution of Ricketts's unique, holistic approach to science, include “Verbatim transcription of notes on the Gulf of California trip,” the basic manuscript for Steinbeck's and Ricketts's “Log from the Sea of Cortez”; the essays “The Philosophy of Breaking Through” and “A Spiritual Morphology of Poetry”; several shorter pieces on topics including collecting invertebrates and the impact of modernization on Mexican village life; and more. This critical biography, with a number of rare photographs, offers a new, detailed view of Ricketts's life.Less
Trailblazing marine biologist, visionary conservationist, deep ecology philosopher, Edward F. Ricketts (1897–1948) has reached legendary status in the California mythos. A true polymath and a thinker ahead of his time, Ricketts was a scientist who worked in passionate collaboration with many of his friends—artists, writers, and influential intellectual figures—including, perhaps most famously, John Steinbeck, who once said that Ricketts's mind “had no horizons.” This collection, featuring previously unpublished pieces as well as others available for the first time in their original form, reflects the wide scope of Ricketts's scientific, philosophical, and literary interests during the years he lived and worked on Cannery Row in Monterey, California. These writings, which together illuminate the evolution of Ricketts's unique, holistic approach to science, include “Verbatim transcription of notes on the Gulf of California trip,” the basic manuscript for Steinbeck's and Ricketts's “Log from the Sea of Cortez”; the essays “The Philosophy of Breaking Through” and “A Spiritual Morphology of Poetry”; several shorter pieces on topics including collecting invertebrates and the impact of modernization on Mexican village life; and more. This critical biography, with a number of rare photographs, offers a new, detailed view of Ricketts's life.
Ian P. Howard and Brian J. Rogers
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195367607
- eISBN:
- 9780199867264
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195367607.003.0014
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience, Cognitive Psychology
This chapter discusses depth vision in animals other than cats and primates. These include invertebrates, fish, amphibian, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
This chapter discusses depth vision in animals other than cats and primates. These include invertebrates, fish, amphibian, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
Peter Hogarth
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780198568704
- eISBN:
- 9780191717536
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198568704.003.0006
- Subject:
- Biology, Aquatic Biology
This chapter discusses the marine components of mangroves. Mangroves provide marine organisms with both a physical environment and nutrients. Pneumatophores and prop roots greatly expand the surface ...
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This chapter discusses the marine components of mangroves. Mangroves provide marine organisms with both a physical environment and nutrients. Pneumatophores and prop roots greatly expand the surface area available and provide a hard substrate, in contrast to the surrounding mud, while the primary production of mangroves supplies an energy source for many organisms. These marine components include algae, fauna of mangrove roots, invertebrates, molluscs, meiofauna, and fish.Less
This chapter discusses the marine components of mangroves. Mangroves provide marine organisms with both a physical environment and nutrients. Pneumatophores and prop roots greatly expand the surface area available and provide a hard substrate, in contrast to the surrounding mud, while the primary production of mangroves supplies an energy source for many organisms. These marine components include algae, fauna of mangrove roots, invertebrates, molluscs, meiofauna, and fish.
Thomas W. Cronin, Sönke Johnsen, N. Justin Marshall, and Eric J. Warrant
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691151847
- eISBN:
- 9781400853021
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691151847.003.0005
- Subject:
- Biology, Evolutionary Biology / Genetics
This chapter studies the eye designs of the animal kingdom. Today, there are ten generally recognized optical eye types that have evolved in various branches of the animal kingdom. Whereas ...
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This chapter studies the eye designs of the animal kingdom. Today, there are ten generally recognized optical eye types that have evolved in various branches of the animal kingdom. Whereas vertebrates possess only one of them, invertebrates possess all ten, from simple assemblies of photoreceptors that underlie phototaxis to advanced compound and camera eyes that support a sophisticated range of visual behaviors. Some invertebrates even possess several eyes of more than one type. The chapter identifies some of these eye types in the context of sensitivity and resolution, namely, pigment-pit eyes, compound eyes, and camera eyes. The last of these are characteristic of the vertebrates, although they are also commonplace among the invertebrates. The remaining nine eye types are found only within the invertebrates.Less
This chapter studies the eye designs of the animal kingdom. Today, there are ten generally recognized optical eye types that have evolved in various branches of the animal kingdom. Whereas vertebrates possess only one of them, invertebrates possess all ten, from simple assemblies of photoreceptors that underlie phototaxis to advanced compound and camera eyes that support a sophisticated range of visual behaviors. Some invertebrates even possess several eyes of more than one type. The chapter identifies some of these eye types in the context of sensitivity and resolution, namely, pigment-pit eyes, compound eyes, and camera eyes. The last of these are characteristic of the vertebrates, although they are also commonplace among the invertebrates. The remaining nine eye types are found only within the invertebrates.
Gordon M. Shepherd
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195391503
- eISBN:
- 9780199863464
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195391503.003.0009
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, History of Neuroscience
In the 1950s, the microelectrode opened the door not only to understanding the properties of the individual nerve cell, but also to how they are connected; how they “talk” to each other. Two ...
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In the 1950s, the microelectrode opened the door not only to understanding the properties of the individual nerve cell, but also to how they are connected; how they “talk” to each other. Two philosophies emerged. One was to aim at working out connections in order to build up the circuits responsible for the responses of the cells. The other approach was to record and characterize the responses of the cells to physiological stimuli, to show what the brain does, and to leave to future work identifying the circuits involved. Both philosophies arose in the 1950s and produced dramatic results that shaped all subsequent studies of the physiology of the central nervous system. This chapter considers the spinal cord, retina, and invertebrate systems.Less
In the 1950s, the microelectrode opened the door not only to understanding the properties of the individual nerve cell, but also to how they are connected; how they “talk” to each other. Two philosophies emerged. One was to aim at working out connections in order to build up the circuits responsible for the responses of the cells. The other approach was to record and characterize the responses of the cells to physiological stimuli, to show what the brain does, and to leave to future work identifying the circuits involved. Both philosophies arose in the 1950s and produced dramatic results that shaped all subsequent studies of the physiology of the central nervous system. This chapter considers the spinal cord, retina, and invertebrate systems.
Pat Willmer
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691128610
- eISBN:
- 9781400838943
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691128610.003.0017
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
This chapter considers pollination by nonflying vertebrates and other oddities. It begins with a discussion of ectotherm vertebrates visiting flowers; these include fish, amphibians, and reptiles. ...
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This chapter considers pollination by nonflying vertebrates and other oddities. It begins with a discussion of ectotherm vertebrates visiting flowers; these include fish, amphibians, and reptiles. Fish are not recorded as flower visitors, but they are at least occasionally facilitators of the pollination process for shoreline pond plants, where they prey on animals that compete with or reduce pollinator populations. The chapter proceeds with an analysis of pollination by nonflying mammals such as marsupials, rodents, monkeys, and lemurs as well as flowers that they regularly visit, including ground-level (geoflorous) flowers and arboreal flowers. Finally, it examines pollination by unusual invertebrates ranging from snails and woodlice to land crabs and millipedes.Less
This chapter considers pollination by nonflying vertebrates and other oddities. It begins with a discussion of ectotherm vertebrates visiting flowers; these include fish, amphibians, and reptiles. Fish are not recorded as flower visitors, but they are at least occasionally facilitators of the pollination process for shoreline pond plants, where they prey on animals that compete with or reduce pollinator populations. The chapter proceeds with an analysis of pollination by nonflying mammals such as marsupials, rodents, monkeys, and lemurs as well as flowers that they regularly visit, including ground-level (geoflorous) flowers and arboreal flowers. Finally, it examines pollination by unusual invertebrates ranging from snails and woodlice to land crabs and millipedes.
Mauricio Lima and Fabian M. Jaksic
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780198507499
- eISBN:
- 9780191709845
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198507499.003.0016
- Subject:
- Biology, Aquatic Biology
This chapter aims to cast new light upon the preceding chapters, drawing upon the authors' experience along the western fringe of South America, especially on data gained from Chilean ecosystems. The ...
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This chapter aims to cast new light upon the preceding chapters, drawing upon the authors' experience along the western fringe of South America, especially on data gained from Chilean ecosystems. The eastern side of the tropical Pacific — where El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) plays a highly significant role — is linked closely to the NAO impacts in the North Atlantic sector. Specifically, the impacts on plants, invertebrates, amphibians, birds, and mammals are considered.Less
This chapter aims to cast new light upon the preceding chapters, drawing upon the authors' experience along the western fringe of South America, especially on data gained from Chilean ecosystems. The eastern side of the tropical Pacific — where El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) plays a highly significant role — is linked closely to the NAO impacts in the North Atlantic sector. Specifically, the impacts on plants, invertebrates, amphibians, birds, and mammals are considered.
Katharine A. Rodger
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520247048
- eISBN:
- 9780520932661
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520247048.003.0003
- Subject:
- History, History of Science, Technology, and Medicine
Edward F. Ricketts revised the original draft of Between Pacific Tides throughout the early 1930s, appending his four-page “Zoological Introduction,” in which he defended the book's ecological ...
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Edward F. Ricketts revised the original draft of Between Pacific Tides throughout the early 1930s, appending his four-page “Zoological Introduction,” in which he defended the book's ecological arrangement as “a natural history in every sense of the word.” In this introduction, he notes that arranging Between Pacific Tides according to shore habitats “necessitated a great amount of field work, most of which could have been obviated if the traditional treatment had been used.” Despite the establishment of academic thinking against which he worked, Between Pacific Tides is Ricketts's most recognized scientific achievement, and is revered as a classic and pioneering text in marine biology. In this work, the distribution of Pacific littoral invertebrates within a given region is seen in the light of competition and interrelation between the animals themselves, and the limiting aspects of the following factors: wave shock, tidal level, and type of bottom, along with a good many others of lesser importance, such as temperature, stagnation, silting, etc., all pretty well intermingled and interdependent.Less
Edward F. Ricketts revised the original draft of Between Pacific Tides throughout the early 1930s, appending his four-page “Zoological Introduction,” in which he defended the book's ecological arrangement as “a natural history in every sense of the word.” In this introduction, he notes that arranging Between Pacific Tides according to shore habitats “necessitated a great amount of field work, most of which could have been obviated if the traditional treatment had been used.” Despite the establishment of academic thinking against which he worked, Between Pacific Tides is Ricketts's most recognized scientific achievement, and is revered as a classic and pioneering text in marine biology. In this work, the distribution of Pacific littoral invertebrates within a given region is seen in the light of competition and interrelation between the animals themselves, and the limiting aspects of the following factors: wave shock, tidal level, and type of bottom, along with a good many others of lesser importance, such as temperature, stagnation, silting, etc., all pretty well intermingled and interdependent.
J. R. Krebs and G. Horn (eds)
- Published in print:
- 1991
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198521983
- eISBN:
- 9780191688492
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198521983.001.0001
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Psychology
The topics discussed in this volume have been chosen to represent studies in which both behavioural and neurobiological analysis have been emphasized. They include work on behavioural and neural ...
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The topics discussed in this volume have been chosen to represent studies in which both behavioural and neurobiological analysis have been emphasized. They include work on behavioural and neural aspects of imprinting, song learning in birds, and spatial memory of food-storing birds. There are also overviews of neural and behavioural aspects of classical conditioning, the role of the hippocampus in spatial behaviour in mammals, and studies of learning in invertebrate model systems. The volume is based on a Royal Society Discussion Meeting held in February 1990 and the chapters have been published in the Society's Philosophical Transactions series B.Less
The topics discussed in this volume have been chosen to represent studies in which both behavioural and neurobiological analysis have been emphasized. They include work on behavioural and neural aspects of imprinting, song learning in birds, and spatial memory of food-storing birds. There are also overviews of neural and behavioural aspects of classical conditioning, the role of the hippocampus in spatial behaviour in mammals, and studies of learning in invertebrate model systems. The volume is based on a Royal Society Discussion Meeting held in February 1990 and the chapters have been published in the Society's Philosophical Transactions series B.
Lori Lach and Linda M. Hooper‐Bùi
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199544639
- eISBN:
- 9780191720192
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199544639.003.0015
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology, Animal Biology
Solenopsis invicta and Linepithema humile are among the most studied invasive insects but there are several other invasive ants with adverse ecological consequences. The displacement of native ants ...
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Solenopsis invicta and Linepithema humile are among the most studied invasive insects but there are several other invasive ants with adverse ecological consequences. The displacement of native ants is the best documented consequence of ant invasions, though recent research calls into question the long‐term effects of monogyne S. invicta. Other invertebrates are also affected by invasive ants, though interactions with the same taxa can vary across different parts of an invasive ant's introduced range. Stinging invasive ants, particularly S. invicta, have the greatest documented effects on vertebrates, including birds, mammals, and herpetofauna. On plants, invasive ants may displace pollinators or other floral arthropods, deter or facilitate herbivores, or affect natural enemies. Invasive ants are often poor seed dispersers relative to native ants. S. invicta nesting habits alter many soil properties, though it is unclear how extensive these changes are relative to those caused by the displaced native ants.Less
Solenopsis invicta and Linepithema humile are among the most studied invasive insects but there are several other invasive ants with adverse ecological consequences. The displacement of native ants is the best documented consequence of ant invasions, though recent research calls into question the long‐term effects of monogyne S. invicta. Other invertebrates are also affected by invasive ants, though interactions with the same taxa can vary across different parts of an invasive ant's introduced range. Stinging invasive ants, particularly S. invicta, have the greatest documented effects on vertebrates, including birds, mammals, and herpetofauna. On plants, invasive ants may displace pollinators or other floral arthropods, deter or facilitate herbivores, or affect natural enemies. Invasive ants are often poor seed dispersers relative to native ants. S. invicta nesting habits alter many soil properties, though it is unclear how extensive these changes are relative to those caused by the displaced native ants.
Charles R. C. Sheppard, Simon K. Davy, and Graham M. Pilling
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780198566359
- eISBN:
- 9780191713934
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198566359.003.0007
- Subject:
- Biology, Biodiversity / Conservation Biology, Aquatic Biology
Fisheries are of key importance in provision of protein, livelihood opportunities and income to islanders and coastal populations with few alternative food sources, including some of the world's ...
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Fisheries are of key importance in provision of protein, livelihood opportunities and income to islanders and coastal populations with few alternative food sources, including some of the world's poorest people. The variety of reef fisheries of both invertebrate and vertebrate resources around the world is examined. Methods used and particular issues with these fisheries are discussed. Exploitation of reef resources also occurs to supply luxury food markets, and the international live reef fish trade is highlighted. The development of reef-based aquaculture is examined, and issues that need to be addressed to deliver sustainable expansion of this approach are discussed. In the face of increasing pressures on reef resources from a number of sources, resultant impacts on reef renewable resources are detailed, and potential ways in which these pressures may be managed and controlled are described.Less
Fisheries are of key importance in provision of protein, livelihood opportunities and income to islanders and coastal populations with few alternative food sources, including some of the world's poorest people. The variety of reef fisheries of both invertebrate and vertebrate resources around the world is examined. Methods used and particular issues with these fisheries are discussed. Exploitation of reef resources also occurs to supply luxury food markets, and the international live reef fish trade is highlighted. The development of reef-based aquaculture is examined, and issues that need to be addressed to deliver sustainable expansion of this approach are discussed. In the face of increasing pressures on reef resources from a number of sources, resultant impacts on reef renewable resources are detailed, and potential ways in which these pressures may be managed and controlled are described.
Nicholas P. Money
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- January 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780199732562
- eISBN:
- 9780199918515
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199732562.003.0006
- Subject:
- Biology, Natural History and Field Guides, Plant Sciences and Forestry
Few mushroom species are regarded as poisonous, but there are cases of serious illness and lethal poisoning caused by nominally edible species. These include muscle wasting, and eventual heart ...
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Few mushroom species are regarded as poisonous, but there are cases of serious illness and lethal poisoning caused by nominally edible species. These include muscle wasting, and eventual heart failure, caused by the yellow knight mushroom. Regional differences in toxicity may explain these incidents. Wider concern is raised by experiments showing that rodents fed large doses of popular mushrooms show signs of tissue damage. It is possible that toxins may be common among mushrooms, but are usually produced in high concentrations only in the most notorious species. Poisoning by these species, including the death cap and a deadly webcap, are caused, usually, by errors in identification. Treatment options are very limited. The biological significance of mushroom toxins is unclear, but these compounds are probably active against predatory invertebrates. Mushroom toxicity has been utilized as a literary device by poets and as a hateful metaphor by fascists and Christian fundamentalists.Less
Few mushroom species are regarded as poisonous, but there are cases of serious illness and lethal poisoning caused by nominally edible species. These include muscle wasting, and eventual heart failure, caused by the yellow knight mushroom. Regional differences in toxicity may explain these incidents. Wider concern is raised by experiments showing that rodents fed large doses of popular mushrooms show signs of tissue damage. It is possible that toxins may be common among mushrooms, but are usually produced in high concentrations only in the most notorious species. Poisoning by these species, including the death cap and a deadly webcap, are caused, usually, by errors in identification. Treatment options are very limited. The biological significance of mushroom toxins is unclear, but these compounds are probably active against predatory invertebrates. Mushroom toxicity has been utilized as a literary device by poets and as a hateful metaphor by fascists and Christian fundamentalists.
Donald S. McLusky and Michael Elliott
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780198525080
- eISBN:
- 9780191728198
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198525080.003.0005
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
This chapter examines the impact of the various secondary consumers on the populations of primary consumers, and how the secondary consumers share or compete for the food supplies between themselves. ...
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This chapter examines the impact of the various secondary consumers on the populations of primary consumers, and how the secondary consumers share or compete for the food supplies between themselves. Almost all the estuarine birds, fish, and crabs feed on the animals of the primary consumer trophic level, but a few birds bypass this trophic level and instead feed directly on the primary producer plants. Migrations between habitats represent a fundamental aspect of the ecology of populations and individuals. The complex movements between breeding, wintering or feeding areas during various life-history stages are often critical to the survival of species. Estuaries are viewed as critical nursery environments supporting a rich variety of seasonal visitors. The best-known examples are waterfowl, but estuaries are used in a similar way by fish and shrimps, for feeding and wintering.Less
This chapter examines the impact of the various secondary consumers on the populations of primary consumers, and how the secondary consumers share or compete for the food supplies between themselves. Almost all the estuarine birds, fish, and crabs feed on the animals of the primary consumer trophic level, but a few birds bypass this trophic level and instead feed directly on the primary producer plants. Migrations between habitats represent a fundamental aspect of the ecology of populations and individuals. The complex movements between breeding, wintering or feeding areas during various life-history stages are often critical to the survival of species. Estuaries are viewed as critical nursery environments supporting a rich variety of seasonal visitors. The best-known examples are waterfowl, but estuaries are used in a similar way by fish and shrimps, for feeding and wintering.
Håkan Rydin and John K. Jeglum
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780198528722
- eISBN:
- 9780191728211
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198528722.003.0002
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
Peatlands host a wide diversity of species and life forms. The plants are the most obvious, since they provide the structural foundation and are the source of organic compounds derived from ...
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Peatlands host a wide diversity of species and life forms. The plants are the most obvious, since they provide the structural foundation and are the source of organic compounds derived from photosynthesis for the sustenance of animals and microorganisms. This chapter gives an overview of important life forms and the associated diversity of fungi, microorganisms, protozoan, algae, plants, and animals within different types of peatlands, mainly in temperate and boreal areas. For both plants and animals, characteristic species are mentioned together with quantitative information about the importance and abundance of different life forms in different types of peatlands. Many organisms are useful indicators of environmental conditions, and examples of such indicators are drawn from testate amoebae, bryophytes, and vascular plants.Less
Peatlands host a wide diversity of species and life forms. The plants are the most obvious, since they provide the structural foundation and are the source of organic compounds derived from photosynthesis for the sustenance of animals and microorganisms. This chapter gives an overview of important life forms and the associated diversity of fungi, microorganisms, protozoan, algae, plants, and animals within different types of peatlands, mainly in temperate and boreal areas. For both plants and animals, characteristic species are mentioned together with quantitative information about the importance and abundance of different life forms in different types of peatlands. Many organisms are useful indicators of environmental conditions, and examples of such indicators are drawn from testate amoebae, bryophytes, and vascular plants.
Timothy J. Bradley
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780198569961
- eISBN:
- 9780191728273
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198569961.003.0005
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
In the marine environment, the vast majority of organisms are osmoconformers, meaning that all of their bodily fluids are in osmotic equilibrium with the surrounding seawater. If the salinity of the ...
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In the marine environment, the vast majority of organisms are osmoconformers, meaning that all of their bodily fluids are in osmotic equilibrium with the surrounding seawater. If the salinity of the seawater should vary due to local precipitation or evaporation, the osmotic concentration of the organism's body fluids vary in concert with the change in environmental salinity. Although the organisms must osmoconform due to highly permeable body surfaces, they often regulate the ions in their blood, and always regulate the ions in their intracellular fluids. The osmoregulatory and/or ion regulatory mechanisms in echinoderms, mollusks, arthropods, hagfish, sharks, and a species of frog are provided to illustrate the diversity of organisms employing this regulatory strategy.Less
In the marine environment, the vast majority of organisms are osmoconformers, meaning that all of their bodily fluids are in osmotic equilibrium with the surrounding seawater. If the salinity of the seawater should vary due to local precipitation or evaporation, the osmotic concentration of the organism's body fluids vary in concert with the change in environmental salinity. Although the organisms must osmoconform due to highly permeable body surfaces, they often regulate the ions in their blood, and always regulate the ions in their intracellular fluids. The osmoregulatory and/or ion regulatory mechanisms in echinoderms, mollusks, arthropods, hagfish, sharks, and a species of frog are provided to illustrate the diversity of organisms employing this regulatory strategy.
N. Joan Abbott, Roddy Williamson, and Linda Maddock (eds)
- Published in print:
- 1995
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198547907
- eISBN:
- 9780191724299
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198547907.001.0001
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Invertebrate Neurobiology
Cephalopods (octopus, squid, cuttlefish) are among the most intelligent invertebrates, with highly developed nervous systems that provide excellent model systems for investigating basic questions in ...
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Cephalopods (octopus, squid, cuttlefish) are among the most intelligent invertebrates, with highly developed nervous systems that provide excellent model systems for investigating basic questions in neuroscience. In 32 chapters, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the functioning of the cephalopod nervous system, from the cellular level to their complex sensory systems, locomotion, learning and social behaviour.Less
Cephalopods (octopus, squid, cuttlefish) are among the most intelligent invertebrates, with highly developed nervous systems that provide excellent model systems for investigating basic questions in neuroscience. In 32 chapters, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the functioning of the cephalopod nervous system, from the cellular level to their complex sensory systems, locomotion, learning and social behaviour.
Frank H. T. Rhodes
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- January 2017
- ISBN:
- 9781501702440
- eISBN:
- 9781501706233
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Cornell University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7591/cornell/9781501702440.003.0005
- Subject:
- Earth Sciences and Geography, Cultural and Historical Geography
This chapter focuses on the invertebrates—on whom the whole bio-economy of our planet depends. These creatures exist in countless numbers and represent a dazzling variety of different forms and form ...
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This chapter focuses on the invertebrates—on whom the whole bio-economy of our planet depends. These creatures exist in countless numbers and represent a dazzling variety of different forms and form a critical link—not only in the food chain but also in the long history of life. Thus the chapter begins by mapping the geologic history of the invertebrates, represented by body fossils, traces of activity on sedimentary rocks, and the chemical signatures of rocks. It then goes on to describe half a dozen or so invertebrate groups that are most common in both living and fossil forms: sponges, coelenterates, mollusks, worms, echinoderms, brachiopods, and arthropods.Less
This chapter focuses on the invertebrates—on whom the whole bio-economy of our planet depends. These creatures exist in countless numbers and represent a dazzling variety of different forms and form a critical link—not only in the food chain but also in the long history of life. Thus the chapter begins by mapping the geologic history of the invertebrates, represented by body fossils, traces of activity on sedimentary rocks, and the chemical signatures of rocks. It then goes on to describe half a dozen or so invertebrate groups that are most common in both living and fossil forms: sponges, coelenterates, mollusks, worms, echinoderms, brachiopods, and arthropods.
Peter J. Hayward and John S. Ryland (eds)
- Published in print:
- 2017
- Published Online:
- April 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780199549443
- eISBN:
- 9780191847943
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199549443.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Aquatic Biology
This guide to the marine fauna of the continental shelf seas of north-west Europe provides dichotomous identification keys for macrobenthic invertebrates and coastal fish. An introduction to the ...
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This guide to the marine fauna of the continental shelf seas of north-west Europe provides dichotomous identification keys for macrobenthic invertebrates and coastal fish. An introduction to the marine environment of the region is followed by a guide to the animal groups covered, and each major taxonomic group is treated, in twelve separate chapters, each commencing with a brief description of the morphological and biological characteristics of the group. Technical terms are defined, with especial reference to their significance in classification and importance for identification. Keys to higher taxonomic categories, where useful, and to families lead to keys for the identification of selected species. Confirmatory diagnoses are given for most families. Short descriptions and notes on occurrence and distribution are provided for each species, and the majority are illustrated by line drawings. Coverage varies from group to group, being fairly comprehensive for conspicuous, well-known animals, such as anthozoans, molluscs, echinoderms, and fish, while the selection of species is smaller for some taxonomically difficult or poorly documented groups, such as sponges and sea squirts. However, where possible, the actual or potential diversity of each group within the region is indicated at family level. This edition incorporates systematic and phylogenetic revisions current at submission. Keys have been reviewed and improved; nomenclature has been updated, and descriptions and distributions have been improved or revised where appropriate. Species additional to those in the first edition include several seen to be more common than previously apparent, and a number of newly arrived exotics.Less
This guide to the marine fauna of the continental shelf seas of north-west Europe provides dichotomous identification keys for macrobenthic invertebrates and coastal fish. An introduction to the marine environment of the region is followed by a guide to the animal groups covered, and each major taxonomic group is treated, in twelve separate chapters, each commencing with a brief description of the morphological and biological characteristics of the group. Technical terms are defined, with especial reference to their significance in classification and importance for identification. Keys to higher taxonomic categories, where useful, and to families lead to keys for the identification of selected species. Confirmatory diagnoses are given for most families. Short descriptions and notes on occurrence and distribution are provided for each species, and the majority are illustrated by line drawings. Coverage varies from group to group, being fairly comprehensive for conspicuous, well-known animals, such as anthozoans, molluscs, echinoderms, and fish, while the selection of species is smaller for some taxonomically difficult or poorly documented groups, such as sponges and sea squirts. However, where possible, the actual or potential diversity of each group within the region is indicated at family level. This edition incorporates systematic and phylogenetic revisions current at submission. Keys have been reviewed and improved; nomenclature has been updated, and descriptions and distributions have been improved or revised where appropriate. Species additional to those in the first edition include several seen to be more common than previously apparent, and a number of newly arrived exotics.
