ECOtoxicology: Ecological Dimensions (Ettore Majorana International Science Series)

Ecotoxicology is a rapidly-developing area of science which seeks to understand the impacts of toxic chemical exposure on the integrity of ecological systems and their subcomponents. Since its inception in the 1970s, its concerns have broadened from a consideration of lethal effects arising from catastrophic events such as oil spillages towards the understanding of more subtle nonlethal impacts on natural systems. In recent years, as the science has developed, the need for continued exchange of ideas between ecotoxicologists and mainstream ecologists has been highlighted, and the aim of this volume is to bring together international experts from both within and outside the ecotoxicological community to review and highlight the most recent developments in their areas of expertise. The material presented covers both aquatic and terrestrial systems, and deals with issues of global concern, and offers a potential source of ideas and information for those involved in environmental research and management. This book should be of interest to ecotoxicologists, ecologists, environmental scientists and risk assessment practitioners.