Restoring the Oceanic Island Ecosystem: Impact and Management of Invasive Alien Species in the Bonin Islands

Book Details:

• Author: Isamu Okochi

• Brand: Springer

• Edition: 1

• Binding: Hardcover

• Pages: 216

• Release Date: 30-03-2010

• EAN: 9784431538585

• Package Dimensions: 11.1 x 8.3 x 0.7 inches

• Languages: English

About The Book:

"Biodiversity and Conservation on the Bonin Islands" by Isamu Okochi delves into the critical issue of biodiversity loss on tropical and subtropical oceanic islands, with a special focus on the Bonin Islands (also known as the Ogasawara Islands). These islands are unique due to their isolated ecosystems, home to distinctive fauna and flora that evolved over long periods with little external influence.

However, over time, especially with the settlement of Polynesians and Europeans, many of these island ecosystems have been threatened. The Bonin Islands, located 1,000 km south of Japan, represent one of the last remaining examples of remote islands that have only recently been subjected to human settlement. The history of these islands is intricate, with early discovery by the Japanese in 1670 and later settlement by Westerners from Hawaii in 1830, culminating in their official recognition as part of Japan in 1862, which allowed previous settlers to remain on the islands.

This book addresses the pressing conservation issues facing these islands, examining how human settlement has impacted biodiversity and what can be done to protect these ecosystems. The author combines ecological insights with historical context to provide a comprehensive view of the Bonin Islands' unique environment and conservation challenges.

Key Features:

• Illustrated Content: The book includes 22 black & white illustrations and 4 black and white maps, which help to visualize the islands' biodiversity and conservation efforts.

• Biodiversity Focus: Provides an in-depth study of the loss of biodiversity on the Bonin Islands, highlighting the impact of human activities and the subsequent conservation strategies employed.

• Historical Context: Explores the historical background of the Bonin Islands, providing valuable insights into how human settlement shaped the biodiversity and conservation landscape.

• Remote Ecosystems: The Bonin Islands are positioned as one of the most remote island groups, making them a unique case study for the conservation of isolated ecosystems.

Why This Book is Important:

• Conservation Perspective: Offers crucial knowledge on the biodiversity and conservation of tropical and subtropical islands, a field that is increasingly relevant in today’s global efforts to protect endangered species and ecosystems.

• Ecological Understanding: Helps researchers and environmentalists understand the complexities of island ecosystems and the profound impact of human intervention.

• Historical and Cultural Insight: The book provides a detailed exploration of the Bonin Islands’ history, shedding light on the complex human interactions with the land and its ecosystems.

"Biodiversity and Conservation on the Bonin Islands" is an essential resource for ecologists, conservationists, and anyone interested in island biodiversity and the impact of human activities on isolated ecosystems. It offers a detailed, illustrated examination of a unique conservation case in one of the world’s most remote locations.