Review by Choice Review
Symbiotic Interactions is one of several books on the phenomenon of symbiosis that have appeared in recent years. In its popular usage, the term symbiosis has come to mean the same as mutualism, and this can truly be described as a book about selected topics in mutualism. Douglas has employed a restricted definition of symbiosis to cover only those mutualistic associations between different species that require prolonged interactions. Therefore, the subjects of pollination biology, seed dispersal mutualism, and animal parasitism are not covered. Exciting developments on the topic of coevolution are not included. Douglas does an excellent job of covering some familiar themes, such as algae in corals, ruminant microorganisms, luminescent bacteria of marine fishes, lichens, mycorrhizal associations, and nitrogen-fixing bacteria. A unique feature is the manner in which he has explored mutualistic interactions. The chapters are organized around topics such as novel structures, metabolic capabilities, nutritional interactions, symbiosis initiating mechanisms, and the ecological impact of mycorrhizal associations coupled with the role of the nitrogen cycle in nature. There is a brief chapter on symbiosis and the eukaryotic cell. A well-written book with fine illustrations, line drawings, and graphs. Recommended. Undergraduate collections.
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
