Plant Science Bulletin 41:54-56 (Autumn, 1995)

"In essence, this book is a symphonic expansion on the themes first elaborated by Huston in 1979, and the theoretical core of the book (c. 4-10) extends this model spatially from the gene to the landscape and temporally to encompass the full range of successional dynamics. As a listener is enchanted by a fine musical composition, the reader of Biological Diversity is captivated by the simplicity of the model, the overt soundness of the conclusions, and the clarity of the writing."

Huston's book should be read by everyone interested in learning more about patterns of diversity of organisms that share the Earth with humans, and by everyone concerned with their rapid disappearance. In the final chapter, Huston discusses the implications of his dynamic equilibrium model for the conservation and protection of our natural heritage. ...Huston argues briefly, albeit convincingly, that 'there is no inherent conflict between the preservation of biological diversity and the economic improvement of the human condition.

In Biological Diversity, Huston begins a discussion that could lead to informed policies for balancing preservation of diversity with human needs."

Aaron Ellison, Mount Holyoke College