Publications: Books
Ecology of Cities and Towns: A Comparative Approach
Edited by Mark J. McDonnell, Amy K. Hahs and Jürgen H. Breuste
The Australian Research Centre for Urban Ecology (ARCUE) is very pleased to announce the publication of a new book “Ecology of Cities and Towns: A Comparative Approach” that is now available through Cambridge University Press. This is an edited book compiled by Mark J. McDonnell, Amy K. Hahs and Jürgen H. Breuste , and is composed of 35 chapters contributed by scientists and planners working within the area of urban ecology. As the number and size of cities and towns around the world continues to grow, it is important to develop a better understanding of how urban development impacts upon the biodiversity and ecosystem functions of these novel environments. “Ecology of Cities and Towns: A Comparative Approach” provides an overview of the current state of knowledge for many different components of urban ecology research, and demonstrates how this ecological understanding has been used to inform the planning, management and design of urban areas. Current knowledge gaps and opportunities for new research directions are identified. The opportunities to expand and enhance our understanding of the ecology of cities and towns using a comparative research approach are also repeatedly explored. More Info from Cambridge University Press
Bayesian Methods for Ecology
Michael A. McCarthy More Information The interest in using Bayesian methods in ecology is increasing, however many ecologists have difficulty with conducting the required analyses. McCarthy bridges that gap, using a clear and accessible style. The text also incorporates case studies to demonstrate mark-recapture analysis, development of population models and the use of subjective judgement. The advantages of Bayesian methods, are also described here, for example, the incorporation of any relevant prior information and the ability to assess the evidence in favour of competing hypotheses. Free software is available as well as an accompanying web-site containing the data files and WinBUGS codes. Bayesian Methods for Ecology will appeal to academic researchers, upper undergraduate and graduate students of Ecology. - Describes the basics of Bayesian statistical methods in an easily - accessible style
- Describes a diversity of analyses that are typically conducted by ecologists
- The examples are based on a free computer program (WinBUGS)
- Data files are provided, allowing the reader to replicate the results in the book and modify the examples to their own data
Indigenous Plants of the Sandbelt
A Gardening Guide for South-eastern MelbourneIndigenous Plants of the Sandbelt is a gardening book which will increase your understanding of the local environment and enable you to transform your garden into part of a more sustainable landscape by using indigenous plants in new and exciting ways. This book explains the benefits of choosing indigenous plant species and, offers the gardener practical advice in planning, planting and maintenance. Over 180 indigenous plants currently available in nurseries are described and illustrated. Planting tables and flowering diagrams help you to choose plants that will thrive in particular areas of your garden and introduce colour throughout the year. The region's natural history - geology, plant communities and fauna - are explained, and a chapter on attracting fauna to your garden highlights another rewarding and fascinating outcome of gardening with indigenous plants. Written by Rob Scott, Neil Blake, Jeannie Campbell, Doug Evans and Nicholas Williams and published by Earthcare St Kilda Inc. Available from the Royal Botanic Gardens Shop, indigenous nurseries in the sandbelt region and selected book shops. RRP $25.00 | 
