Assesses dimensions of the threatened-species problem (by contrast with the way it has been handled in the past) and suggests some directions for urgent research if the problem is to be confronted in its proper scope and scale. Among topics addressed are the biological, genetic, and ecological attributes of species. (JN)

Marine mammals have not only fascinated and inspired human beings for thousands of years, but they also support a big business by providing flesh for sea-borne factories, sustaining Arctic lifestyles and traditions, and attracting tourists to ocean aquaria. While they are being harpooned, bludgeoned, shot, netted, and trained to jump through…

Outlines the deforestation problem and some efforts for solving the problem. Considers the impact of population growth, poverty, and ignorance. Includes a discussion of the current rapid decline in tropical forests, the consequences of destruction, and an outlook for the future. (YP)

Recommendations of the World National Parks Congress, which met in Bali, Indonesia, are provided in this document. These recommendations address issues related to: information on protected areas; global system of representative terrestrial protected areas; marine and coastal protected areas; Antarctica; the role of protected areas in sustainable…

"Eukiefferiella" and "Tvetenia" are closely related genera belonging to the subfamily Orthocladiinae within the Chironomidae, a family of non-biting midges. All known larvae in these genera are aquatic, being found predominantly in running water. Most species prefer cold, swift-flowing, well-oxygenated streams. Although larvae…

Presents an annotated list of 34 animals and 32 plants which are candidates for a list of the top 10 endangered species. Also presents the criteria used to formulate these lists. They include the conservation value (urgency prominance, biological value) and operational considerations (such as cost factors) for each species. (JN)

Raccoons are a successful group of animals because they are able to defend themselves and they have characteristics which give them a remarkable ability to adjust or adapt. The raising of captured baby raccoons can cause survival problems for the animals. (CM)

Currently available ornithology books are described. These include general reference books on birds as well as guides for identifying birds in their natural habitats. (JN)

Examines the limitations associated with the language of sustainability and their implications for environmental thinking. Explores what sustainability is not by using the idea of digital watches as a metaphor. Uses contemporary examples from advertising, curriculum development, and wildlife management to illustrate the central theme. (Author/SAH)

Describes the plants and animals which inhabit a natural meadow. Includes a two-page, color drawing of such a meadow with a key indicating the flora and fauna illustrated. (JN)

Biology textbooks usually give examples of organisms that have become ideally adapted to their habitat as a result of evolution. This article illustrates some poorly adapted organisms. Imperfections serve to demonstrate the purely chance nature of evolution since either the beneficial changes have not happened or the modifications that have…

Mangroves are the characteristic littoral plant formations of tropical/subtropical sheltered coastlines. Presented is a detailed report which discusses uses made of mangrove ecosystems and attempts to resolve conflicts arising from these uses. Areas considered include cause/consequence of mangrove destruction, legislative/administrative aspects,…

Found at the summit of some of the highest peaks of New York State's Adirondack Mountains are low-growing plants similar, and in many cases, identical to plants growing in the Arctic. Describes these plants and the environment in which they are found. Includes a color plate of alpine tundra plants. (Author/JN)

Describes the rationale and purpose of the Yellowstone Institute, an educational facility that offers short field courses to professional adults about the greater Yellowstone area as one of the last remaining intact wilderness ecosystems in the world. Contact information concerning the course catalog is provided. (JJK)

This document consists of data which highlight trends in all sectors relevant to environmental policy. These data are presented in the form of charts and maps contained in 13 sections under the following headings: people and the land; critical areas (wetlands, wild areas, parks, historic places, and risk zones); human settlements; transportation;…