This book presents current research from across the globe in the study of the fauna, flora and environmental characteristics of desert life. Topics discussed include the conservation status and diversity of fishes, amphibians, reptiles, and bird populations in the Thar Desert of India; desert pupfish in Death Valley; floral diversity, threats and conservation in the Nara Desert of Pakistan; mollusc fauna and its ecology in the Indian desert; and, sustainable beef cattle production in the desert environment of Mendoza, Argentina.

More than 70% of the earth's surface is covered by water, making it an ideal and abundant resource for studying species diversity, faunal communities, and ecosystems. India's massive coastline (5,044 miles) means it plays a major role in housing these faunal communities. Of the 32 animal phyla, 15 are represented in India's marine ecosystem, covering more than 15,000 species.

Marine and coastal ecosystems of India provide supporting services in the form of wide range of habitats. Major ecosystems such as estuaries, mangroves, coral reefs, lagoons, seaweeds and sea grasses serve as...