Comparative Ecology of Microroganisms and Macoorganisms

The objective of this unique text is to present a conceptual synthesis of plant, animal, and microbial ecology. Focusing on the application of ecological and evolutionary principles to the individual organism, the author discusses topics such as genetic variation, nutritional mode, size, growth and growth form, life cycle, and interaction with the environment. He concludes with a summary of similarities and differences in the life histories of micro- and macroorganisms. His central premise, illustrated by examples from diverse areas of ecology, is that in the broad range of aspects considered here, all organisms have been similarly shaped by evolution operating through differential reproductive success and thus promoting the development of analogous traits.