Endemism in Vascular Plants

The book offers a comprehensive analysis of the macroecology and geobotany of endemic vascular plants with case-studies and analyses from different regions in the world. Coverage includes how to measure and monitor endemism in space.

The book is the first comprehensive analysis of the macroecology and geobotany of endemic vascular plants with case-studies and analyses from different regions in the world. Endemism is a pre-extinction phenomenon. Endemics are threatened with extinction. Due to international nature conservation policies and due to the perception of the public the concept’s importance is increasing. Endemism can result from different biological and environmental processes. Depending on the process conservation measures should be adapted. Endemic vascular plant taxa, in the setting of their species composition and vegetation types are important features of landscapes and indicators of the quality of relating habitats. The book is an important basis for biologists, ecologists, geographers, planners and managers of nature reserves and national parks, and people generally interested in nature conservation and biogeography of vascular plants.

Part I. The Meaning of Endemism.- 1. The Increasing Importance of Endemism: Responsibility, the Media and Education.- 2. How to Quantify Endemism.- Part II. Endemic Vascular Plants over Time.- 3. Factors that Create and Increase Endemism.- 4. Factors that Threaten and Reduce Endemism.- Part III. Endemic Vascular Plants in Space .- 5. Biogeography of Endemic Vascular Plants – Overview.- 6. Endemism on Islands - Case Studies.- 7. Endemism in Mainland Regions - Case Studies.- Part IV. Endemism in Vascular Plants – Synthesis.- Appendix.- Glossary.