Seaweeds, also known as macroalgae, are among the most important primary producers and act as ecological engineers on rocky coasts of the world's oceans. In addition to their extreme ecological importance they are also of high economic relevance. Complementing available textbooks with its more research-oriented approach, this volume contains 22 chapters by renowned experts, grouped in five parts. In Part I fundamental processes and acclimation strategies of seaweeds towards the abiotic environment are covered. Part II focuses on the multitude of biotic interactions in seaweed communities, and in Part III the reader is introduced to the structure and function of the main seaweed systems of the world. The chapters of Part IV highlight and discuss the effects of global and local environmental changes on seaweeds and their communities. In the final Part V a comprehensive overview of developments in seaweed aquaculture, industrial applications and the overall economic importance of seaweeds is provided. Summarizing the advances in seaweed biology achieved within the last few decades, this book also identifies gaps in the present knowledge and needs for future research.
From the reviews:
Selected by Choice magazine as an "Outstanding Academic Title" for 2013
"This useful volume ? is a treasure trove of current information focusing on the ecological role of marine macroalgae. ? readers will be happy to find a current look at the effects of global climate change on seaweed ecology, the increasing presence of 'blooming' macroalgae in many places globally, and current practices in seaweed aquaculture. ? This superb volume is valuable for macroalgae scientists and all undergraduate and graduate institutions with marine programs. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above." (C. W. Schneider, Choice, Vol. 50 (5), January, 2013)
"The book is science oriented and a very good source book for students who look for an overview in seaweed biology. The chapters are written in a concise manner ? . this is a valuable book which shows an extended view on recent seaweed biology. For those who are interested in basic science this book is the primary choice." (Christian Wilhelm, Sektion Phykologie der DBG, December, 2012)
