This book is of enduring value as the culminating work of one of the most important ecologists of all time. -- Edward O. Wilson, Harvard University One of the great classics of the ecological literature. It has served as an inspiration and challenge to three academic generations of biologists, a catalyst for controversy that still enlivens the field, and a record of the genius of the author. -- Robert K. Colwell, University of California at Berkeley

First published in 1972 and now available for the first time in paperback, this book is the summation of the life work of one of the most influential scientists of our time. Of permanent interest in the history and philosophy of science, it is also frequently cited in the current ecological literature and is still up-to-date in many categories. "The theme running through this book," MacArthur wrote, "is that the structure of the environment, the morphology of the species, the economics of species behavior, and the dynamics of population changes are the four essential ingredients of all interesting biogeographic patterns." Written in his beautifully lucid style, this work will continue to be read by anyone concerned with biological ideas.