"North American Terrestrial Vegetation, Second Edition, is a major contribution to botanical and ecological literature and provides comprehensive coverage of the major vegetation types of North America from the arctic tundra of Alaska to the tropical forests of Central America. Each chapter gives the reader a feeling for the composition, architecture, environment, and conservation status of each ecosystem. In addition to vegetation descriptions, information is also included on the abiotic environment, paleoecology, productivity, nutrient cycling, autecological behavior of dominant species, environmental issues, management problems, the role of natural disturbance, and critical areas for future research." "This is essential reading for students and researchers in plant science, ecology, and conservation."--Jacket.