This revised introduction to the American tropics and their rainforests, ecosystems and creatures includes chapters on neotropical ecosystems, human ecology, and the effects of deforestation. Biodiversity and its preservation are also discussed, and neotropical evolution is described in detail.

Second edition.

• Foreword Ch
• Rainforest Structure and Diversity Ch
• How a Rainforest Functions Ch
• Evolutionary Patterns in the Tropics Ch
• Complexities of Coevolution and Ecology of Fruit Ch
• The Neotropical Pharmacy Ch
• Living Off the Land in the Tropics Ch
• Rivers through Rainforest Ch
• Introduction to the Andes and Tepuis Ch
• Savannas and Dry Forests Ch
• Coastal Ecosystems
• Mangroves, Seagrass, and Coral Reefs Ch
• Neotropical Birds Ch
• A Rainforest Bestiary Ch
• Deforestation and Conservation of Biodiversity Appendix "And Hey, Let's Be Careful Out There" Acronyms Glossary Neotropical Field Guides and Handbooks Recommended Book
• Length References Literature Cited Index

The book is exactly what it says it is, a companion to take with you on your travels in the New World tropics... The author has written ... with just the right amount of informality and humor. Journal of Natural History An intense and lively field guide...compact and richly substantive Scientific American