This text investigates the complex ecological dynamics of the terrestrial environments across tropical East Asia, including the subtropics and Northeast India. Richard T. Corlett, a specialist in tropical ecology, synthesizes extensive biological data to examine the interactions between flora, fauna, and their habitats. The book provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the biodiversity of the region while evaluating the anthropogenic pressures that threaten these ecosystems.

Experts recognize this work as a foundational reference for students and researchers focused on Asian tropical biology. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which effectively bridges the gap between regional field studies and broader ecological theory.