There is a growing concern that many important ecosystems, such as coral reefs and tropical rain forests, might be at risk of sudden collapse as a result of human disturbance. At the same time, efforts to support the recovery of degraded ecosystems are increasing, through approaches such as ecological restoration and rewilding. Given the dependence of human livelihoods on the multiple benefits provided by ecosystems, there is an urgent need to understand the situations under which ecosystem collapse can occur, and how ecosystem recovery can best be supported. To help develop this understanding, this volume provides the first scientific account of the ecological mechanisms associated with the collapse of ecosystems and their subsequent recovery. After providing an overview of relevant theory, the text evaluates these ideas in the light of available empirical evidence, by profiling case studies drawn from both contemporary and prehistoric ecosystems. Implications for conservation policy and practice are then examined.

‘… the book is written by integrating viewpoints from a variety of disciplines, among them that of theoretical ecology and of conservation biology ... What is particularly helpful in the structure of the book are the conclusions at the end of each chapter and a series of tables that aim to summarise and highlight ideas, conclusions and propositions … it references classical ecological work that is a springboard for the subject, … [and] provides some historical background on scientific debates… it also contains anecdotes of the author’s personal experience and opinions (always well-balanced and undogmatic). … there are as many questions as answers provided in the book that would interest the general reader as well as the most experienced researcher in the field.’

Vasilis Dakos Source: African Journal of Range & Forage Science