The first of three volumes, this copiously illustrated and accessible volume presents the upland ecosystems of Florida, while volumes 2 and 3 present the wetland and aquatic ecosystems, respectively. It cites Floridas varied landscape which supports dozens of ecosystems, all of which interact in interdependent webs of life and are home for a multitude of plant and animal species. Whitney and Means aim to familiarize Floridians--both the public and scientific professionals--with their states fascinating, complex, ancient, intricate, and secretive natural ecosystems with the emphasis on healthy. Eight chapters are: natural ecosystems and native species; high pine grasslands; flatwoods and prairies; beach-dune systems; Florida scrub; temperate hardwood hammocks rocklands, upland glades, and caves; the past and the future. Annotation 2015 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)
