Population Dynamics and Laboratory Ecology

Population Dynamics and Laboratory Ecology highlights the contributions laboratory studies are making to our understanding of the dynamics of ecological and evolutionary systems. Chapters address the scientific rationale for laboratory ecology, its historical role within the broader discipline, and recent advances in research. The book presents results from a wide range of laboratory systems including insects, mites, plankton, protists, and microbes.

A common theme throughout the book is the value of microcosm studies in advancing our knowledge of ecological and evolutionary principles. Each chapter is authored by scientists who are leading experts in their fields. The book addresses fundamental questions that are of interest to biologists whether they work in the laboratory or field or whether they are primarily empiricists or theorists.

Details a scientific rationale for laboratory systems in ecological and evolutionary studiesOffers a view on historical role of laboratory studiesIncludes examples of recent research advances in ecology and evolution using laboratory systems, ranging from insects to microbesIntegrates mathematics, statistics and experimental studies

1. Understanding Ecological Concepts: The Role of Laboratory Systems
-- Michael B. Bohsall and Michael P. Hassell

2. Complexity, Evolution, and Persistence in Host-Parasitoid Experimental Systems with Callosobruchus Beetles as the Host
-- Midori Tuda and Masakazu Shimada

3. Population Dynamics, Life History and Demography: Lessons from Drosophila
-- Lawrence D. Mueller, Casandra L. Rauser and Michael R. Rose

4. Nonlinear Stochastic Population Dynamics: The Flour Beetle Tribolium as an Effective Tool of Discovery
-- Brian Dennis, Shandelle M. Henson and Aaron A. King

5. Population Dynamics in a Noisy World: Lessons from a Mite Experimental System
--Tim Benton and Andrew Beckerman

6. Global Persistence Despite Local Extinction in Acarine Predator-Prey Systems: Lessons from Experimental and Mathematical Exercises
-- Maurice W. Sabelis, Arne Janssen, Odo Diekmann, Vincent A.A. Janssen, Erik Van Gool and Minus Van Baalen

7. Ecological and Evolutionary Dynamics of Experimental Plankton Communities
-- Gregor F. Fussman, Stephen P. Ellner, Nelson G. Hairston, Jr., Laura E. Jones, Kyle W. Shertzer and Takehito Yoshida

8. The Contribution of Laboratory Experiments on Protists to Understanding Population and Metapopulation Dynamics
-- Marcel Holyoak and Sharon P. Lawler

9. Microbial Experimental Systems in Ecology
-- Christine M. Jessup, Samantha E. Forde and Brendan J. M. Bohannan

10. Parasitism Between Co-Infecting Bacteriophages
-- Paul E. Turner

11. Constructing Nature: Laboratory Models as Necessary Tools for Investigating Complex Ecological Communities
-- Marc W. Cadotte, James A. Drake and Tadashi Fukami