Aims and Methods in the Study of Vegetation

Abstract

OWING to the foresight and initiative of Sir Joseph Hooker, we now possess published floras of many of the British colonies, but such floristic data is only the pioneer work which should form the basis for further research. The time has now come when the investigation of the vegetation of the Empire can be profitably undertaken, and indeed urgently demands attention. Quite apart from the value of such knowledge for its own sake, an ecological survey of the Empire is of paramount importance for its further economic development. To exploit the natural vegetation of any region to the best advantage, we require to know much not only with respect to its existing composition and structure, but also its potentialities under the more or less artificial conditions imposed by man. Aims and Methods in the Study of Vegetation. Edited by Prof. A. G. Tansley Dr. T. F. Chipp. (Published by the British Empire Vegetation Committee.) Pp. xvi + 383 + 19 plates. (London: The Crown Agents for the Colonies, 1926.) 12s. 6d.