Despite a century of study by ecologists, recovery following disturbances (succession) is not fully understood. This book provides the first global synthesis that compares plant succession in all major terrestrial biomes and after all major terrestrial disturbances. It asks critical questions such as: Does succession follow general patterns across biomes and disturbance types? Do factors that control succession differ from biome to biome? If common drivers exist, what are they? Are they abiotic or biotic, or both? The authors provide insights on broad, generalizable patterns that go beyond site-specific studies, and present discussions on factors such as varying temporal dynamics, latitudinal differences, human-caused vs. natural disturbances, and the role of invasive alien species. This book is a must-read for researchers and students in ecology, plant ecology, restoration ecology and conservation biology. It also provides a valuable framework to aid land managers attempting to manipulate successional recovery following increasingly intense and widespread human-made disturbances.

‘… a useful reference volume for students of succession … Prach and Walker … succeed in their comprehensive survey of plant succession, and in highlighting the many gaps for future research.’

Gillian L Rapson Source: Conservation Biology

‘… a much-needed summary and synthesis in a single volume … By presenting a thorough, detailed comparative summary of plant succession research to date, Prach and Walker provide the needed foundation for future successional research.’

Cynthia Chang Source: The Quarterly Review of Biology