Genes in Ecology

Logically genetics and ecology should be complementary disciplines - at least at the population biology level. In reality this is not the case. The emphasis of genetical and ecological textbooks and courses are often so different that the disciplines in which they are taught can appear to be dealing with different concepts. This 33rd Volume in the BES Symposium Series seeks to dismantle this specialist approach and to unify the two disciplines where possible and appropriate. The volume is divided into three major sections. Genes in Ecology discusses the influences of population genetics on our view of ecology. Molecules in Ecology reviews the use of molecular methods in the investigation of adaptation and ecological processes and Ecology in Genetics discusses the integration of ecological principles with genetics. A final section Techniques and Protocols includes a brief description of molecular and genetical techniques appropriate and helpful in the work of the ecologist. 32 papers (in the majority of cases co-written by an ecologist and a geneticist) seek to integrate ecology and genetics where appropriate. Highlights the importance of one discipline for the other and provides a framework for overcoming the weaknesses of communication that currently exist.