Ecology: Individuals, Populations and Communities

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Summary: The best ecology book I ever read
Review: An exelent book, covering almost any area of ecology. Lot's of useful references. An essential book for any ecologist.

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Summary: Best all around resource for ecological studies
Review: Begon's book is the best way to get a serious handle on the complexities of ecology. This book attempts no dumbing down and gives more resources than could ever be used in a lifetime.
The explanations given for basic concepts are unique and cannot be found anywhere else. For example, this book makes a clear point about the relationship between evolution and ecology. Chapter One starts off with a discussion of natural selection that is unique; seems that one must rely on an ecologist for a full understanding of evolution. Begon suggests that the word abaptation be used to describe the match that most organisms display with their environment because that word carries with it the historical meaning that is left out of the picture when the word adaptation is used to descirbe the match between organism and environment.
All important areas of ecology are covered; population dynamics, energy in communities and biological diversity. Again, I have yet to see, after having examined several major publishers' offerings, a better book for either someone just getting started in ecology or a person already well versed in the topic.

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Summary: Good clear introduction to ecology.
Review: This textbook is an excellent introduction to anyone who wishes to study ecology in an academic context.I have found it very useful in my undergraduate studies.