ABOUT THE BOOKThis well written textbook discusses the definitions and concepts of plant ecology, ethnobotany and soil science in a simple and easy-to-understand language. Aptly supported with diagrams, tables and photographs, it discusses a wide range of topics such as environment, ecosystem, succession, adaptations, vegetation, phytogeography, ecological indicators, global warming (greenhouse effect), conservation and management of natural resources. This book deals with the impacts of disasters on environment and biodiversity. It further provides an introduction to ethnobotany as well as discusses the definition, origin, formation, classification and types of soil, soil erosion, soil conservation, soil fertility and soil degradation.This textbook is intended for the undergraduate and postgraduate students of Botany and would also be useful to the aspirants of various competitive examinations.ABOUT THE AUTHORSDr. R.S. Shukla was formerly Reader in the Department of Botany at D.A.V. College, Kanpur. He has a long teaching experience at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.Dr. P.S. Chandel was formerly Reader in the Department of Botany at Jai Narain P.G. College, Lucknow. He taught Botany to undergraduate and postgraduate students.