Vividly illustrated with many color pictures, this introduction to the basic concepts of ecology interprets the relationship between plants and animals in terms of their roles as producers or consumers of energy. Throughout the book, examples are taken from two familiar ecosystems--a woodland and an intertidal rocky shore. How such complex systems work is explained by following the flow of energy as it is captured by plants and transferred to other living things as they feed. Intended for older children and young adults interested in ecology, this book is distinguished by its readable and engaging style and by its supurb color illustrations.