The Ecology of Sandy Shores 4th Edition

The Ecology of Sandy Shores, 4th Edition by Omar Defeo and Anton McLachlan is the definitive, up-to-date guide for anyone who studies, manages, or simply cares about beach ecosystems. This authoritative text brings together contemporary research and practical insight on the physical and biological processes that shape sandy coastlines around the world.

Explore how waves, tides and sediment dynamics interact with dune systems and intertidal communities to create the living landscape of beaches—from temperate Atlantic shores to tropical Pacific atolls and Mediterranean and Indian Ocean coastlines. Clear explanations of species interactions, population dynamics, and ecosystem services are paired with real-world examples that make complex concepts accessible to students, researchers, coastal managers, and conservationists.

This 4th edition emphasizes applied coastal ecology and sustainable management: evidence-based strategies for erosion control, habitat restoration, biodiversity conservation, and climate-change resilience. Readers will appreciate the blend of rigorous science and practical relevance—field-friendly approaches, monitoring frameworks, and case studies that translate research into policy and on-the-ground action.

Written by leading experts Omar Defeo and Anton McLachlan, the book is both a classroom staple and a professional reference. Whether you’re preparing for fieldwork, shaping coastal policy, or deepening your understanding of beach ecosystems, this volume equips you with the concepts and tools to make informed decisions for sandy shores everywhere.

Bring contemporary coastal science to your shelf—discover the processes, pressures, and solutions that define sandy shore ecology and help protect the world’s beaches for future generations.

Note: eBooks do not include supplementary materials such as CDs, access codes, etc.