ESSENTIALS OF ECOLOGY, Second Edition is the ideal alternative to other ecology texts, which tend to be too difficult for non-majors. It is a succinct 12-chapter introduction, using clear, straightforward language and providing the scientific foundation necessary to understand ecological issues. ESSENTIALS OF ECOLOGY features the accuracy, balance, and current coverage that have made Miller's texts best-sellers. In fact, Miller's books are used more often at colleges across the country and around the world than any other environmental science texts! Based on Miller's LIVING IN THE ENVIRONMENT, THIRTEENTH EDITION, this text is designed to be flexible and adaptable for almost any instructional approach. With fair and balanced coverage and Internet tools integrated throughout, the book features an extensively developed art program and the most current coverage of ecology available. For the first time ever, students will automatically receive a free CD-ROM entitled "Interactive Concepts in Environmental Science" with ESSENTIALS OF ECOLOGY, Second Edition. This groundbreaking addition integrates nearly 100 engaging animations and interactions with chapter summaries, flashcards, and Web-based quizzes. Organized by chapter, the CD-ROM provides students with links to relevant resources, narrated animations, interactive figures, and prompts to review material and test themselves. The animations show complex processes and relationships unfolding on screen, such as smog formation, the phosphorus cycle, and the effects of acid rain. For this edition, Miller has added an on-line Web-based resource, entitled the Resource Integration Guide, which is updated quarterly with CNN Today video clips, animations, and articles from Thomson Learning InfoTrac College Edition service. Instructors will be able to seamlessly incorporate the most current news articles and research findings to support classroom instruction and text presentations.