In this well-written, comprehensive, reasonable yet passionate volume, Emilio Moran introduces us to the range of human and ecological diversity in the Amazon Basin. By describing the complex heterogeneity on the Amazon's ecological mosaic and its indigenous populations' conscious adaptations to this diversity, he leads us to realize that there are strategies of resource use which do not destroy the structure and function of ecosystems. Finally, and most important, he examines ways in which we might benefit from the study of human ecology to design and implement a balance between conservation and use.
"An excellent overview of modern research on the ecology and human ecology of Amazonia…a gold mine of information on recent research."—William Vickers
"This book is a remarkably lucid and comprehensive synthesis of the cultural ecology of the tropical lowlands of Amazonia…an invaluable reference for anyone interested in farming and foraging in the humid tropics."—Michael Chibnik
1. Amazonia: People and Environment
2. Blackwater Ecosystems
3. Upland Forests
4. Floodplains
5. Savannas
6. Human Ecology as a Critique of Development
