The natural history of lakes - Mary J. Burgis

The Natural History of Lakes provides a fully illustrated and clearly written introduction to the fascinating world of lakes, which are shown to be not only the beautiful scenic attractions that we know, but also thriving natural communities. Despite their distinct shorelines, lakes and their many subtle variations have profound effects on the immense variety of wildlife they support. The Natural History of Lakes explains these relationships and describes the formation of lakes and their dramatic seasonal patterns, the properties of lake water, and the plants and animals that lakes support. The remarkable variety of the world's lakes is then described, from the frozen lakes of Antarctica, to dramatic high-altitude lakes such as Titicaca. Having provided a picture of lakes as dynamic but delicate habitats, the authors finally discuss the crucial questions of conservation. This attractive book is richly illustrated with photographs, drawings and diagrams. The authors' extensive travels and research give a unique combination of clear detail and broad coverage. It will appeal to anyone interested in natural history, to anglers, ornithologists and conservationists, as well as to the traveller, the tourist and the student.