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Contents:

1 - Ecological genetics; 2 - Markers and sampling in ecological genetics; 3 - Genetic diversity and differentiation; 4 - Gene flow and mating system; 5 - Intraspecific phylogenies and phylogeography; 6 - Speciation and hybridisation; 7 - Case studies in ecological genetics: Lycaenid butterflies, ragwort, bears and oaks.

Review:

Genetics might be seen as the 'latest thing' but in reality it's origins go back over a century. What has changed in the last few years is the way in which the principles of genetics have been used in so many areas. It is now quite reasonable to think that genetic ecology will be the next key principle through which ecology is viewed taking over from energetics, populations etc. If this is the case then we need a range of texts both theoretical and practical to help us understand what's happening. This book, which arose from an Ecological Genetics Group meeting in 2000, looks at genetic variation and the analysis of same.

For those new to this area, chapter one starts off very briefly with a history of the topic and the way it has developed. Chapter two investigates ways in which we can gather information. Sampling is crucial and here we are given an overview of sampling principles. Since we use genetic markers this work is also described and the ways in which it limits methodologies outlined. Chapter three looks at the factors affecting the diversity, differentiation and distance (range of variation) of a species. It also describes some of the common tests that can be used and highlights their strengths and weaknesses with case studies. Chapter four examines the ideas of dispersal and subsequent establishment of a species and the range of gene flow tests that can be applied. Phylogeography is the geographical study of lineages and the subject of chapter 5. A range of methods are described along with case studies showing how they work. In a slight change of course, chapter six look at the theory and nature of speciation and the use of cladistics. Finally, in chapter seven, there are four detailed case studies which show how the ideas in the book can be applied.

There is much to like in this text. Each chapter is very well illustrated. In addition there are the usual summaries, boxes and references (very full lists for each chapter). Some chapters have detailed accounts of methodologies in addition to other textual material. It would prove to be a very good introduction for undergraduate students and those studying a more advanced approach. Although an introduction it is hardly a beginners text needing a good basic grasp of genetics to gain the most from it (thus limiting its direct use in schools).