"Principles of Ecology & Evolution" is a comprehensive textbook that provides an in-depth understanding of the fundamental concepts of ecology and evolution. This book is designed as per the FYUGP (NEP) syllabus and caters to undergraduate students pursuing Zoology as a major or minor subject across multiple universities in India.

The book is structured into ten detailed units, covering topics from ecological principles to evolutionary theories, population genetics, and applied ecology. Each chapter is meticulously designed with updated content, engaging explanations, and practical insights, making it a valuable resource for students and educators alike.

Table of Contents

UNIT 1: INTRODUCTION TO ECOLOGY (Pages 11-32)

• History of Ecology

• Contributions of Indian Workers in Ecology

• Objectives of Study

• Scope of Ecology

• Approach to the Study of Ecology

• Environmental Factors

• Sub-Divisions of Ecology

• Limiting Factors

• Microclimate

UNIT 2: POPULATIONS (Pages 33-90)

• Population and its Characteristics

• Population Regulation

• Life History Strategies

• Amensalism

• Models of Predator-Prey Dynamics

• Ecological Interactions

• Interspecific Interactions

UNIT 3: COMMUNITY (Pages 91-130)

• Characteristics of a Community

• Ecological Succession and Community Dynamics

• Causes and Types of Succession

• General Process of Succession

• Hydrosere and Lithosere

• Ecosystem Development

• Ecological Niche and Indicators

• Adaptations and Ecotypes

• Speciation

UNIT 4: ECOSYSTEM (Pages 131-195)

• Size and Components of an Ecosystem

• Major Ecosystems (Pond, Aquatic, Marine, Terrestrial)

• Functions of an Ecosystem

• Productivity and Food Chains

• Flow of Energy in Ecosystems

UNIT 5: APPLIED ECOLOGY (Pages 196-233)

• Importance of Wildlife

• Indian Wildlife Conservation History

• Causes of Wildlife Depletion

• Conservation Strategies

• Wildlife Management and Protected Areas

• Endangered Species and Special Conservation Projects

• Biodiversity Conservation (In-Situ & Ex-Situ)

UNIT 6: ORIGIN OF LIFE (Pages 234-255)

• Introduction to the Origin of Life

• Origin of Universe & Earth

• Theories of Origin of Life

• Modern Concepts of Origin of Life

• Origin of Eukaryotic Cells

UNIT 7: EVOLUTIONARY THEORY (Pages 256-284)

• Lamarckism & Neo-Lamarckism

• Darwinism & Neo-Darwinism

• Evidences of Evolution

• Fossils & Geological Time Scale

UNIT 8: SOURCE OF VARIATION (Pages 285-301)

• Nature and Types of Variations

• Sources and Significance of Variation

• Atavism

UNIT 9: POPULATION GENETICS (Pages 302-340)

• Hardy-Weinberg Law

• Natural Selection

• Adaptive Resemblance

• Role of Migration and Mutation in Allele Frequency Changes

UNIT 10: EVOLUTION OF MAN (Pages 341-362)

• Evolution of Primates, Monkeys, and Apes

• Origin and Evolution of Man

• Human Fossils of Asia, Africa, and Europe

PRACTICAL PAPERS (Pages 363-388)

Includes hands-on exercises and experimental techniques related to ecology and evolution, helping students reinforce theoretical knowledge through practical application.

Why This Book?

• Comprehensive Coverage: Aligns with the latest NEP syllabus across multiple universities.

• Conceptual Clarity: Presents complex ecological and evolutionary principles in a simplified manner.

• Indian Contributions Highlighted: Recognizes and discusses the work of Indian ecologists and environmentalists.

• Student-Friendly Approach: Structured content with diagrams, illustrations, and real-life examples.

This book serves as an indispensable guide for students, educators, and researchers delving into the dynamic and evolving fields of Ecology and Evolution. It is a must-have reference for those preparing for university examinations and competitive assessments in Zoology and related fields.