The Fishes and the Forest: Explorations in Amazonian Natural History delves into the intricate relationship between the Amazon rainforest and its diverse aquatic life. With the Amazon basin home to the world's largest rainforest and its richest ecosystem, this book provides vital ecological insights that are crucial for conservation efforts in the face of rapid deforestation. Michael Coulding's study uncovers the essential role the flooded forests play in sustaining over fifty key commercial fish species in the region. His findings reveal that around 75% of these fishes depend on the nutrient recycling processes of the rainforest, suggesting that widespread deforestation of the floodplains could decimate the fish populations and severely impact local fisheries. The book also highlights the critical role of fish in seed dispersal, further emphasizing the interconnectedness of the forest and its aquatic life.

Through a collaborative effort involving both scientists and local naturalists, Coulding presents groundbreaking evidence of the Amazon’s ecological dynamics. The research uncovers complex relationships between the forest, its fish fauna, and the broader ecosystem, showcasing the essential contributions of local fishermen who provide invaluable insights into fish behavior and forest conditions. As the book underscores the urgency of preserving the Amazon's delicate balance, it also serves as a crucial reference for developing sustainable conservation policies. While focused on the Amazon, the lessons drawn from this study are applicable to other tropical regions, offering insights into the broader implications of deforestation on biodiversity and fisheries worldwide.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1980.