Although the unique flora of the Socotra Archipelago with its high degree of endemism has received much attention recently, little information is available on the vegetation and related ecological aspects. Based on their extensive field experience of the region, the authors have assimilated a vast amount of knowledge to produce Vegetation Ecology of Socotra, which gives a detailed insight into the plant ecology of Socotra, designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2008.
Vegetation Ecology of Socotra is divided into seven chapters. After a brief introduction and overviews of important abiotic features, various aspects of the vascular flora are presented in Chapter 4, together with accounts of the bryophyte and lichen flora. Ecology and adaptive strategies of the plants are dealt with in Chapter 5, and Chapter 6 gives a concise description of the main vegetation units. Finally, important management issues of the vegetation are discussed, an essential topic to ensure preservation of the natural heritage of the archipelago.
Preface
Acknowledgements
1. Introduction
2. Topography, Climate and Soils
3. Geology
4. Flora and Biogeography
5. Ecology and Adaptive Strategies
6. Vegetation
7. Environmental Management
Appendix 1. List of vascular plant species of the Socotra archipelago
Appendix 2. List of bryophytes of Socotra
Appendix 3. List of lichens of Socotra
References
Index