Encyclopedia of Islands


Book Description

Islands have captured the imagination of scientists and the public for centuries—unique and rare environments, their isolation makes them natural laboratories for ecology and evolution. This authoritative, alphabetically arranged reference, featuring more than 200 succinct articles by leading scientists from around the world, provides broad coverage of all the island sciences. But what exactly is an island? The volume editors define it here as any discrete habitat isolated from other habitats by inhospitable surroundings. The Encyclopedia of Islands examines many such insular settings—oceanic and continental islands as well as places such as caves, mountaintops, and whale falls at the bottom of the ocean. This essential, one-stop resource, extensively illustrated with color photographs, clear maps, and graphics will introduce island science to a wide audience and spur further research on some of the planet's most fascinating habitats.




Samoan Land Snails and Slugs - An Identification Guide


Book Description

The islands of the Samoan archipelago lie about 14 degrees south of the equator in the central Pacific Ocean. Politically, they are divided into two groups: Samoa (formerly Western Samoa), an indepedent state and American Samoa, a territory of the USA. The islands have been formed as a result of complex volcanic activity; they are geologically young. While many of the plants and birds of the Samoan Islands are found elsewhere in the Pacific, many of the snail species are found nowhere else on Earth. This guide is intended to permit identification of mos of the terrestrial snails, and slugs of the Samoan Islands. It is intended to be accessible to the amateur naturalist but also to provide the experienced scientist with a compact resource of information. The guide covers both the native species and the non-native, introduced species, which are generall more frequently encountered, especially at low elevations and in habits disturbed by human activities.







Introduction to American Samoa


Book Description

American Samoa is a group of islands located in the South Pacific, lying roughly 2,600 miles southwest of Hawaii. It is an unincorporated territory of the United States, meaning that it is under American sovereignty but is not part of the 50 states. American Samoa consists of five volcanic islands and two coral atolls that cover an area of approximately 76 square miles. The islands have a tropical climate and are largely covered in lush rainforest with a diverse range of flora and fauna. American Samoa is home to a diverse culture that has been shaped by its unique history and geographical location. The islands were originally settled by Polynesian explorers, who brought with them their traditions, religion, and language. In 1899, the United States annexed the islands, and American Samoans became US nationals. Today, the islands are governed by an elected governor and legislature, and the people of American Samoa have a unique cultural identity that reflects their rich history and their position between Polynesia and the United States.







Library of Congress Subject Headings


Book Description