The Galápagos are home to a wide-ranging assortment of unusual plants and animals. The islands became famous as the site of Charles Darwin's research leading to his theory of evolution by natural selection, and their magnificent flora and fauna continue to draw visitors from around the world. Based on the author's 16 years of fieldwork and featuring his exceptional photography, Flowering Plants of the Galápagos is the first accessible, in-depth yet compact guide to the plant life of the area. An invaluable resource for tourists, natural history enthusiasts, and professionals, the book: • Introduces the botanical history of the islands and their varied ecological zones • Allows easy identification of 436 flowering plants (77 families, 192 genera, and 390 species) • Covers endemic plants found exclusively on the islands; native plants, which grow on the Galápagos and elsewhere; and exotic plants present as a result of human actions • Offers thorough accounts of the plants which give the scientific, common, and family names; range; islands inhabited; habitat; description; and additional notes of interest • Is richly illustrated with 266 color photographs of flowering plants and 117 of plant pollinators, vegetation zones, non-flowering plants, and the islands themselves • Organizes species by form, leaf arrangement, and flower color and includes descriptive plant drawings to aid in identification • Provides a map of the Galápagos and a list of plants likely to be seen at popular tourist sites

The Galapagos are home to a wide-ranging assortment of unusual plants and animals. The islands became famous as the site of Charles Darwin's research leading to his theory of evolution by natural selection, and their magnificent flora and fauna continue to draw visitors from around the world. Based on the author's sixteen years of fieldwork and featuring his exceptional photography, Flowering Plants of the Galapagos is the first accessible and in-depth, yet compact, guide to the plant life of the area.

A Stanford University Press classic.

Unveiling the Galapagos: A Journey Through Extraordinary Island Flora Embark on a captivating exploration of the unique plant life found in the Galapagos Islands. This book delves into the fascinating world of these resilient species, showcasing their remarkable adaptations, diverse forms, and vital roles within the archipelago's ecosystem. Travel across distinct habitats: The Salty Shores: Discover the mangrove forests, where four distinct species - black, button, red, and white - intertwine their roots, forming crucial sanctuaries for marine life and protecting the coastline from erosion. The Arid Heart: Witness the iconic candelabra cactus, reaching towards the sky with its spiny arms, and encounter the prickly pear cactus, a favorite food source for the giant tortoises and land iguanas. Learn how these cacti thrive in the dry conditions, storing water in their fleshy pads. The Sky-Reaching Peaks: Ascend to the cooler highlands and encounter the unique Scalesia forests. Explore the diverse Scalesia species, also known as "daisy trees," with their vibrant yellow flowers, and understand how their populations have faced challenges due to introduced animals. Uncover the secrets of these botanical wonders: Species Spotlight: Gain detailed descriptions of each plant, including its scientific name, physical characteristics, and fascinating adaptations that allow it to flourish in the Galapagos' unique environment. Remarkable Traits: Explore the ingenious ways these plants survive, from the salt-filtering mechanisms of mangroves to the water-storing capabilities of cacti. Island Distribution: Discover the specific locations where each plant species is found within the Galapagos archipelago, providing a clearer picture of the diverse ecosystems. Understanding the Importance: Food Chain Fundamentals: Learn how these plants form the base of the Galapagos food web, sustaining iconic species like tortoises, iguanas, and finches. Habitat Architects: Explore how plant life shapes the islands' landscapes, providing nesting areas for birds and shelter for countless creatures. Conservation Challenges: Understand the threats faced by Galapagos flora, including invasive species and habitat loss, and discover ongoing efforts to preserve these irreplaceable ecosystems. Unveiling the Galapagos: A Journey Through Extraordinary Island Flora is an essential guide for nature enthusiasts, travelers, and anyone captivated by the wonders of the natural world. It's a beautiful and informative exploration that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the unique plant life that thrives in this extraordinary island paradise.