This paperback introduction to ecology is authored by Philip James, a professor of ecology, and published by Routledge. The book spans 320 pages and appears designed to provide foundational knowledge in the field, as suggested by its title. Published in 2026 as a first edition, the work falls within the categories of science and mathematics, earth sciences, and geography. The text is written in English and offers an accessible entry point for readers seeking to understand ecological principles and concepts.