The Leguminosae of Madagascar is an encyclopaedic tour de force of one of the largest and most diverse families in the unique flora of Madagascar. Economic uses are explored in detail, with local names recorded along with habitats, distribution, flowering time, conservation status, and climate and soil type.

A marvelously illustrated reference to the natural wonders of one of the most spectacular places on earth Separated from Africa’s mainland for tens of millions of years, Madagascar has evolved a breathtaking wealth of biodiversity, becoming home to thousands of species found nowhere else on the planet. The New Natural History of Madagascar provides the most comprehensive, up-to-date synthesis available of this island nation’s priceless biological treasures. Now fully revised and expanded, this beautifully illustrated compendium features contributions by more than 600 globally renowned experts who cover the history of scientific exploration in Madagascar, as well as the island’s geology and soils, climate, forest ecology, human ecology, marine and coastal ecosystems, plants, invertebrates, fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. This invaluable two-volume reference also includes detailed discussions of conservation efforts in Madagascar that showcase several successful protected area programs that can serve as models for threatened ecosystems throughout the world. Provides the most comprehensive overview of Madagascar’s rich natural historyCoedited by 18 different specialistsFeatures hundreds of new contributions by world-class expertsIncludes hundreds of new illustrationsCovers a broad array of topics, from geology and climate to animals, plants, and marine lifeSheds light on newly discovered species and draws on the latest scienceAn essential resource for anyone interested in Madagascar or tropical ecosystems in general, from biologists and conservationists to ecotourists and armchair naturalists

For each phytochemical occurrence the substance, plant species, plant organ and literature source are given. Botanical data for each plant entry include: full scientific name, taxonomic position, number of species in genus, synonyms, common names, geographical distribution, descriptive text, sources of information and uses. Chemical data for each substance entry (v.2) include: preferred name, synonyms, C+H index number, CAS registry number, structure diagram, molecular formula, molecular weight, chemical classification and uses. Includes chapter on Leguminosae classification and a complete list of legume genera by tribe and subfamily.

Aspects of identity explored by eight distinguished authors from different academic disciplines.