Reptiles in the Changing Climate: Species and Ecosystems in Flux on Orchid Island

Description:

This book provides a comprehensive examination of the ecological challenges facing Orchid Island's reptile populations, focusing on the impacts of island biogeography and climate change. By synthesising extensive findings from over 28 years of studies, it offers a detailed analysis of the factors contributing to the decline of reptile populations on this unique island.

The chapters cover a range of topics, including the prospects of reptile ecology on small islands, the cornerstone of basic ecological research, and the importance of long-term ecological studies. Readers will also explore animal behaviour studies and the origins of reptile research on Orchid Island. The book addresses critical questions such as why reptile populations are declining despite minimal human interference and how climate change is disrupting the island's food chain. Through the lens of physiology, molecular biology, and climate change, the authors present a thorough examination of the challenges facing island reptiles.

This volume is an invaluable resource for ecologists, conservationists, and researchers interested in island ecosystems and the impacts of climate change. It invites readers to consider the complex interplay between environmental changes and biodiversity on isolated islands. Scholars and students in the fields of ecology, environmental science, and conservation biology will find this book particularly beneficial. Additionally, it serves as a compelling read for anyone interested in understanding the silent extinctions occurring on Orchid Island and the broader implications for global biodiversity. Whether you are a seasoned scholar or a curious layperson, this book offers a unique perspective on the ecological dynamics of island environments and the urgent need for conservation efforts.

* Shows how climate change reshapes species dynamics and destabilises isolated island ecosystems with minimal human impact

* Traces the geological, cultural, and biological uniqueness of Orchid Island and its reptile inhabitants

* Uses physiology, molecular biology, and climate science to reveal threats to island reptiles and shifts in species roles