This book provides information relevant for the conservation of biodiversity and the sound management of the coastal and forest ecosystems of the Yucatan Peninsula in the face of global change. Various aspects of the biodiversity of the Yucatan Peninsula are analyzed in an integrative manner, including phenological, ecophysiological, ecological and conservation aspects of plants and animals and their relationships with humans in coastal and forest ecosystems.

Dr. Gerald Islebe, PhD University of Amsterdam, more than 70 papers on paleoecology and tropical plant ecology. 16 years of experience in the Yucatan Peninsula. Highest level in the Mexican National System of Researchers (N3).Dr. Sophie Calmé, PhD Laval University, more than 40 scientific papers on animal ecology and conservation, and plant ecophysiology; 5 books, 3 of them as editor. 15 years of experience in the Yucatan Peninsula. Member of the Mexican National System of Researchers.Dr. Jorge L. León-Cortés, PhD University of Leeds, more than 40 scientific papers on insect ecology and biodiversity. Member of the Mexican Academy of Sciences and Member of the National System of Researchers.Dr. Birgit Schmook, PhD Clark University, more than 40 scientific papers on human migration, ecology, environment and changes in land use. 20 years of experience in the Yucatan Peninsula. Member of the Mexican National System of Researchers.

1.Introduction.- 2.Physical Setting and History.- 3.Distribution of vegetation types.- 4.Ecology (Plant).- 4.1.Phenology.-4.2.Ecophysiology.- 4.3.Disturbance, Conservation and use.- 5.Ecology (Animal).- 5.1.Plant-insect interaction.- 5.2.Large fauna.- 5.3.Reptiles and amphibians.- 5.4.Birds.- 5.5.Subsistence hunting& conservation.- 6.Coastal ecosystems and conservation.- 7.Forest ecosystems and conservation.- 8.Integration of conservation measures and policies.