This book is concerned with the general principles and theories of population ecology, based on the idea that the rules governing the dyanmics of populations are relatively simple, and that the rich behavior we observe in nature is a consequence of the structure of the system rather than of the complexity of the underlying rules. From this perspective, the dynamic behavior of single-species populations is examined and an elementary feedback model of the population system is developed. This single-species model is refined and generalized by examining the mechanisms of population regulation. Graphical procedures are developed for evaluating the behavior of populations inhabiting variable environments, which are then applied to the analysis of interaction between two species. Finally, spatial effects on population behavior and communities composed of many interacting species are examined.

Content - Preface to the First Edition, Preface to the Second Edition,  Acknowledgments,  Introduction to Part I, Chapter 1 A Brief Look at Systems in General, Chapter 2 Population Dynamics and an Elementary Model,  Chapter 3 Population Regulation and a General Model, Part II Systems of Interacting Populations, Introduction to Part II Chapter 4 Interactions Between Two Species, Chapter 5 Interactions in Space, Chapter 6 Interactions Between Many Species (Ecological Communities), Epilogue: The Human Dilemma, Answers to Exercises, Name Index, Subject Index