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June 2023 Vol. 60 No. 10

Quantitative ecology is the application of mathematical modeling and probability theory to ecological concepts. Kitzes (Univ. of Pittsburgh) provides a short introduction to the quantitative methods most relevant to an introductory undergraduate course in ecology. In addition to short chapters introducing the methods of quantitative ecology, 20 chapters each present a simple example that can be studied through a quantitative method. Each chapter extends to four or five pages. After presenting the chapter's problem, the appropriate mathematical method is explained. Kitzes presents readers with specific instructions on setting up the mathematical model in a spreadsheet. His writing style is very clear, employing only minimal jargon. The mathematics is limited to algebra, presenting a low barrier to students without much mathematical background. The methods include difference equations, probability, matrix models, and several others. The book's title might be a bit deceptive as this is not a comprehensive resource for readers wanting to apply quantitative methods in their own research. However, the book does include references that will be helpful to those who want to pursue any topic in greater depth.

--M. P. Gustafson, Texas Lutheran University

Summing Up: Recommended. Lower- and upper-division undergraduates. Graduate students.