Ecology and Conservation of Estuarine Ecosystems:Lake St Lucia as a Global Model

by: Renzo Perissinotto (Editor),Derek D. Stretch(Editor),Ricky H. Taylor(Editor)&0more

Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Edition:Illustrated

Publication Date: 16 May 2013

Language: English

Print Length: 511 pages

ISBN-10: 1107019753

ISBN-13: 9781107019751

Book Description

St Lucia is the world's oldest protected estuary and Africa's largest estuarine system. It is also the centerpiece of South Africa's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and has been a Ramsar Wetland of Inteational Importance since 1986. Knowledge of its biodiversity, geological origins, hydrology, hydrodynamics and the long history of management is unique in the world. However, the impact of global change has culminated in unprecedented challenges for the conservation and management of the St Lucia system, leading to the recent initiation of a project in support of its rehabilitation and long-term sustainability. This timely volume provides a unique source of information on the functioning and management of the estuary for researchers, students and environmental managers. The insights and experiences described build on over 60 years of study and management at the site and will serve as a valuable model for similar estuaries around the world.

About the Author

Review 'Ecology and Conservation of Estuarine Systems provides an excellent over-view of this particular estuary and of the biodiversity conservation issues facing many other estuaries in diverse parts of the world.' Ellen Wohl, Biological Conservation Book Description An integrated synthesis of scientific knowledge and management information conceing the world's first protected, and Africa's largest, estuarine system.
About the Author
Renzo Perissinotto is Professor of Marine Biology and Academic Leader in the School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa. He has published 110 articles in primary peer-reviewed literature and is the senior editor of a book on South African temporarily open/closed estuaries, published in 2010.Derek D. Stretch is Professor of Hydraulics and Environmental Fluid Mechanics, the eThekwini-sponsored Chair in Civil Engineering and Director of the Centre for Research in Environmental, Coastal and Hydrological Engineering in the School of Engineering, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.Ricky H. Taylor was Park Ecologist for the iSimangaliso Wetland Park at Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, St Lucia Estuary. He has 37 years of experience at the interface between science and management and has completed a PhD on the St Lucia system through the Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway. Read more