The rationale underlying much recent ecological research has been the necessity to understand the dynamics of species and ecosystems in order to predict and minimise the possible consequences of human activities. As the social and economic pressures for development grow, such studies become increasingly relevant, and ecological considerations have come to play an important role in the management of natural resources. The objective of this series is to demonstrate how ecological research should be applied in the formation of rational management programmes for natural resources, particularly where social, economic or conservation issues are involved. The subject matter will range from single species where conservation or commercial considerations are important, to whole ecosystems where massive perturbations like hydro electric schemes or changes in land-use are proposed. The prime criterion for inclusion will be the relevance of the ecological research to specific, clearly defined management problems, particularly where development programmes generate problems of incompatibility between conservation and commercial interests.

• Editorial Boards: S. K. Eltringham, University of Cambridge, J. Harwood, Sea Mammal Research Unit, Natural Environment Research Council, Cambridge, D. Pimentel, A. R. E. Sinclair, M. P. Sissenwine, National Marine Fisheries Service, Maryland