New Zealand Inventory of Biodiversity Vol 2

Discover the wonders of New Zealand's biodiversity with the 'New Zealand Inventory of Biodiversity Vol 2', a critically acclaimed resource authored by Dennis P. Gordon and published by Canterbury University Press. This essential volume, measuring 210 x 280 mm and spanning 544 pages, is part of a comprehensive three-volume series that meticulously catalogs every known species in New Zealand's diverse ecosystems. Unique to this volume, which focuses on the Ecdysozoa—moulting animals such as arachnids, centipedes, crustaceans, and insects—you'll uncover fascinating details about the unique fauna that populate the stunning landscapes of New Zealand.

This groundbreaking inventory is the result of collaboration among over 220 experts from New Zealand and beyond, marking a significant contribution to global biodiversity research. As you explore its pages, you'll not only learn about the extraordinary array of life forms but also recognize the importance of conservation in preserving these endemic species, which constitute approximately 52% of New Zealand's biota.

This volume is more than just a catalog; it serves as an educational tool for high-school and tertiary-level students, offering insights into the intricate relations between species and their environments. It aims to cultivate a greater appreciation for this natural treasure trove. Perfect for students, researchers, and nature enthusiasts alike, the 'New Zealand Inventory of Biodiversity Vol 2' invites you to embark on a captivating journey through one of the world's most unique ecological landscapes. Get your copy today and play a role in honoring New Zealand’s unique taonga, while supporting scientific literature and understanding ecological diversity.

Author: Dennis P. Gordon Publisher: Canterbury University Press

Dimensions: 210 x 280 mm
Pages: 544
Publication Date: 01-11-2010

This volume is the second of three that provide a complete review and inventory of New Zealand's entire living and fossil biodiversity - an international effort involving more than 220 New Zealand and overseas specialists and the most comprehensive of its kind in the world. Together, the three volumes will list every one of the almost 55,000 known species of New Zealand's animals, plants, fungi and micro-organisms. \n Volume 2 mostly deals with the major branch of the animal kingdom known as Ecdysozoa (moulting animals), which includes arachnids, centipedes and millipedes, crustaceans and insects. It also includes the enigmatic phylum Chaetognatha (arrow worms) and concludes with a chapter on the fossil traces - ichnofossils - of ancient animal activities. \n All three volumes are affiliated with Species 2000, an international scientific project with the long-term goal of enumerating all known species on Earth into one seamless list - the Catalogue of Life, a kind of online biological telephone directory.To date, only New Zealand has compiled a checklist of its entire biota. Approximately 52% of this country's species are endemic - found only in New Zealand's freshwater, marine, and land environments. We have a responsibility to the global community to preserve this unique heritage or taonga. But further than that, all of our species - including many of the naturalised aliens included in the survey - are important to New Zealand's economy, ecology and well-being. Written for the advanced high-school and tertiary-level reader, these volumes are intended to be a kind of 'Cooks Tour' of the kingdoms and phyla of life that will, it is hoped, provide an appreciation of the wondrous diversity of nature.