Selected topics have been reorganized and condensed in response to feedback from professors and students.

Key concepts have moved from the end of each chapter to the beginning of each chapter to assist students in identifying and reviewing topics that are explored in the chapter. 

Profiles of eminent ecologists add a historical perspective and demonstrate that ecology is a very human activity.

A unique problems-oriented approach raises a question in each chapter about how populations and communities operate in nature, and then provides information to help students think critically about the problem.

Writing in clear, jargon-free language, the author incorporates a strong research base, presenting theory and data in parallel so students can evaluate how well the theory fits reality. A set of problems and questions after each chapter further motivates thinking.