Species Diversity and Community Structure

The book "Species Diversity and Community Structure" provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in the research of species diversity and community structures of terrestrial organisms conducted by three groups from Kyoto University. It addresses various aspects of species diversity, starting with the role of fungi in Asian regions, which are investigated through metagenomic approaches and modern sequencing technologies. These technologies enable faster inventorying of species, particularly among microorganisms. Furthermore, the complex interaction between herbivorous insects and plants is highlighted in the context of communities and ecosystems. Recent findings from community and ecosystem genetics offer insights into these interactions, considering genetic variations and phenotypic plasticity in the defense mechanisms of plants against herbivores. Finally, current studies on speciation processes in insects are presented, which are linked to the evolution of specific life history strategies. The book is a valuable resource for ecologists interested in species diversity and community structures.