Generic Revision and Species Classification of the Microdontinae (Diptera, Syrphidae)

Generic Revision and Species Classification of the Microdontinae (Diptera, Syrphidae)
Author: Menno Reemer
Publisher: PenSoft Publishers LTD
Total Pages: 220
Release: 2013-04-12
Genre: Science
ISBN: 9546426806

Hoverflies of the subfamily Microdontinae have a reputation for causing confusion. The adult flies differ so much from other hoverflies that according to some they should be placed in a family of their own. Their diversity in shape and size is astonishing: from large, furry-haired species and convincing wasp-mimics to tiny, unsightly creatures, easily mistaken for something uninteresting. This paper introduces a new generic classification of the Microdontinae. A key to all 43 genera, 7 subgenera and some species groups is presented. All 552 available species names are classified into (sub)genera and species groups. The resulting classification comprises 454 valid species and 98 synonyms, of which 17 valid names and three synonyms are left unplaced. A total number of 26 new species are described, 267 new combinations of species and genera are proposed. The paper concludes with a discussion on diagnostic characters of Microdontinae.

Pollinators and Pollination

Pollinators and Pollination
Author: Jeff Ollerton
Publisher: Pelagic Publishing Ltd
Total Pages: 425
Release: 2021-01-18
Genre: Science
ISBN: 1784272299

A unique and personal insight into the ecology and evolution of pollinators, their relationships with flowers, and their conservation in a rapidly changing world. The pollination of flowers by insects, birds and other animals is a fundamentally important ecological function that supports both the natural world and human society. Without pollinators to facilitate the sexual reproduction of plants, the world would be a biologically poorer place in which to live, there would be an impact on food security, and human health would suffer. Written by one of the world’s leading pollination ecologists, this book provides an introduction to what pollinators are, how their interactions with flowers have evolved, and the fundamental ecology of these relationships. It explores the pollination of wild and agricultural plants in a variety of habitats and contexts, including urban, rural and agricultural environments. The author also provides practical advice on how individuals and organisations can study, and support, pollinators. As well as covering the natural history of pollinators and flowers, the author discusses their cultural importance, and the ways in which pollinator conservation has been portrayed from a political perspective. The book draws on field work experiences in South America, Africa, Australia, the Canary Islands and the UK. For over 30 years the author has spent his career researching how plants and pollinators evolve relationships, how these interactions function ecologically, their importance for society, and how we can conserve them in a rapidly changing world. This book offers a unique and personal insight into the science of pollinators and pollination, aimed at anyone who is interested in understanding these fascinating and crucial ecological interactions.

The Natural History of Santo

The Natural History of Santo
Author: Philippe Bouchet
Publisher:
Total Pages: 0
Release: 2011
Genre: Biodiversity
ISBN: 9782856536278

Santo, the largest island in the South Pacific nation of Vanuatu, is an extraordinary geographical and cultural microcosm, combining reefs, caves, mountains, and satellite isles--with human history that dates back 3,000 years. Collecting contributions from more than one hundred authors, The Natural History of Santo is the result of a 2006 Santo expedition, which brought together scientists, volunteers, and students from twenty-five countries. This lavishly illustrated book pays homage to the biodiversity of this "planet-island" and bridges the gaps between scientific knowledge, conservation, and education.

World Atlas of Biodiversity

World Atlas of Biodiversity
Author: Brian Groombridge
Publisher: Univ of California Press
Total Pages: 362
Release: 2002
Genre: Nature
ISBN: 9780520236684

Global biological diversity, ecosystem diversity.