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      • Trusted Partner
        Science & Mathematics
        April 2024

        Demand-led Plant Breeding

        From Principles to Practice in Emerging Markets

        by Vivienne M Anthony, Cathy Barker

        This companion to "The Business of Plant Breeding: Market-led Approaches to Plant Variety Design in Africa contains experiences from postgraduate educators training the next generation of African plant breeders and professional breeders that are implementing best practices in Demand-Led Breeding (DLB) in their current crop improvement programmes. It is written by highly experienced plant breeders representing several universities, national plant breeding programmes, regional and international agricultural research institutes in Africa, together with expert breeders from Australia and developers from private seed companies. It includes specifically points of learning from real implementation situations from crop breeding programmes in NARS and IARCs in Africa, Australia and internationally. It shares experiences on improving tropical crops, strengthening understanding on how to overcome challenges in designing new crops to increase smallholder farmer adoption and advocating best practices. It also presents five case studies on tropical crops, and discusses the need for an enabling policy environment and the changes needed for Africa to achieve its ambition for food security and Africa's vision 2063.

      • Trusted Partner
        Botany & plant sciences
        February 2012

        Blueberries

        by Jorge B Retamales, James F Hancock

        Blueberry cultivation has increased dramatically as production has shifted into new regions. Blueberries are now widely available as food and also processed to be used in medicine and pharmaceuticals for their antioxidant properties. This new and practical book covers the major topics of interest to blueberry breeders and researchers including botany, physiology, nutrition, growth regulation, photosynthesis, environment, weeds, pests, diseases and postharvest management. The main focus is on the most important cultivated species, the highbush blueberry, although information on other blueberries and related species is also provided. It is an essential resource for soft fruit researchers, extension workers, academics, breeders, growers, and students.

      • Trusted Partner
        Science & Mathematics
        August 2018

        Blueberries

        by J Retamales, J Hancock

        Blueberry cultivation has increased dramatically as production has shifted into new regions. Blueberries are now widely available as food and also processed to be used in medicine and pharmaceuticals for their antioxidant properties. This new and updated edition covers the major topics of interest to blueberry breeders and researchers including botany, physiology, nutrition, growth regulation, photosynthesis, environment, weeds, pests, diseases and postharvest management. The main focus is on the most important cultivated species, the highbush blueberry, although information on other blueberries and related species is also provided. It is an essential resource for soft fruit researchers, extension workers, academics, breeders, growers, and students.

      • Trusted Partner
        July 2021

        Molecular Breeding in Wheat, Maize and Sorghum

        Strategies for Improving Abiotic Stress Tolerance and Yield

        by Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Mobashwer Alam, Saman Seneweera, Sujay Rakshit, Robert Henry

        The global population is projected to reach almost 10 billion by 2050, and food and feed production will need to increase by 70%. Wheat, maize and sorghum are three key cereals which provide nutrition for the majority of the world's population. Their production is affected by various abiotic stresses which cause significant yield losses. The effects of climate change also increase the frequency and severity of such abiotic stresses. Molecular breeding technologies offer real hope for improving crop yields. Although significant progress has been made over the last few years, there is still a need to bridge the large gap between yields in the most favorable and most stressful conditions. This book: - Provides a valuable resource for wheat, maize and sorghum scientists working on breeding and molecular biology, physiology and biotechnology. - Presents the latest in-depth research in the area of abiotic stress tolerance and yield improvements. - Contains the necessary information to allow plant breeders to apply this research to effectively breed new varieties of these crops. It provides a consolidated reference for plant breeders and crop scientists working on the challenges of enhanced crop productivity and climate change adaptability.

      • Trusted Partner
        Biotechnology
        June 1998

        Plant Breeding and Whole-System Crop Physiology

        Improving Adaptation, Maturity and Yield

        by Don H Wallace, Weikai Yan

        Improvements in adaptation and maturity leading to greater yield are the most important criteria for the acceptance of a new crop cultivar, since it is the yield which dictates the economic value of the crop. Therefore, yield improvement is one goal of virtually every crop breeding program. Many such programs have tended to concentrate on identifying the genetic traits responsible for higher yield and selecting each of them in the later stages of the breeding cycle. However, selection for yield per se is still the most effective method, since it is a combination of traits, operating within the limits of the system, which finally determines yield. This book presents a whole-system, or holistic viewpoint for the improvement of adaptation, maturity and yield. Central to its thesis is recognition that system-established changes in levels of the components of the plant system, within a constant capacity, i.e. within the limitations of the system, determines yield and other cultivar characteristics. It goes on to describe how this can improve our understanding of plant systems and enable breeders to maximise performance under prevailing field conditions. Based principally on 25 years research by the authors, the ideas presented in this book are essential reading for crop physiologists and plant breeders.

      • Trusted Partner
        Economics
        June 2007

        Agricultural Biotechnology and Intellectual Property

        Seeds of Change

        by Edited by Jay Kesan

        Scientists are becoming progressively more involved in developing methods for increasing agricultural productivity and designing plants with certain qualities. As such, genetic engineering has given plant breeders a means to exercise property rights over different varieties of plants. This has created many implications and given way to much controversy, with most objections being raised against the idea of owning life. With the use of comparative studies, this book discusses the legal, agribusiness and public policy issues that connect intellectual property protection with advancements in agricultural biotechnology.

      • Trusted Partner
        Botany & plant sciences
        November 2012

        Tropical Fruits, Volume 2

        by Robert E Paull, Odilo Duarte

        Volume 2 of this revised edition of Tropical Fruits examines the more specialist tropical fruits such as guava, durian, mangosteen, passion fruits and palm fruits. With growing interest in the cultivation, production, study, sales and marketability of these specialist fruits, this is a timely and informative book. Topics like botany, soil and climate requirements, cultivar development, world production and harvesting and postharvest handling are covered in-depth for each crop. This practical and accessible book is an ideal text for Horticulture academics, researchers, extension workers, students, breeders, growers and policy makers.

      • Trusted Partner
        Animal breeding
        November 2010

        Breeding for Disease Resistance in Farm Animals

        by Edited by Stephen C Bishop, Roger F E Axford, Frank W Nicholas, John B Owen

        Addressing principles associated with breeding animals for enhanced health and resistance to specific diseases, this new edition provides an updated review of the field and is illustrated with examples covering many diseases of importance to livestock production across all major livestock species. Authored by experts in the field, the book covers techniques and approaches, viruses, TSEs, bacteria, parasites, vectors, and broader health issues seen in production systems, including metabolic diseases. The book will be an essential reference for professionals in the field, scientists and researchers, students, breeders, vets, agricultural advisors and policymakers.

      • Trusted Partner
        Science & Mathematics
        July 2019

        Citrus

        by Leo G Albrigo, Lavern W Timmer, Michael E Rogers

        Citrus, 2nd Edition covers the biology and cultivation of citrus and considers the citrus industry from an international perspective. Fruits including oranges, mandarins, lemons, limes, grapefruit and hybrids such as tangelos are covered and the fundamental topics of taxonomy, cultivars, breeding, husbandry, weeds, pests and diseases are also addressed in detail. This updated new edition includes coverage of new cultivars, advances in the molecular approaches to taxonomic studies, new findings in the physiological understanding of key citrus fruits, recent research into environmental factors affecting external and internal fruit quality and expanded coverage of pests and diseases. The fusion of scientific coverage and practical management make the text suitable for a range of horticulturalists including breeders, growers, researchers and academics.

      • Trusted Partner
        Veterinary medicine: large animals (domestic / farm)
        November 2014

        Genetics of Cattle

        by Edited by Dorian J Garrick, Anatoly Ruvinsky

        Since the time of domestication more than 10,000 years ago, cattle have played an increasingly crucial role in the development of human civilizations. Progress has been quite remarkable since the turn of the century; the sequencing of the bovine genome in 2009 launched new avenues for furthering our understanding of theoretical and practical aspects of cattle genetics. Covering a vast array of questions, this book reviews major topics from molecular and developmental genetics, disease resistance and immunogenetics to genetic improvement of dairy and beef breeds, addressing all current problems in the field. This second edition includes a new team of authors and completely new chapters on the genetics of fat production, nutrition, feed intake and efficiency, growth and body composition. Fully updated throughout, it provides a valuable resource on cattle genetics for researchers, breeders, veterinarians and postgraduate students.

      • Trusted Partner
        February 2022

        Manual of Animal Andrology

        by Peter J Chenoweth, Steven Lorton, Roslyn Bathgate, Robert V. Knox, Paul R. Loomis, Cheryl Lopate, Jane M. Morrell, Clifford F Shipley, Kara R. Stewart, Ahmed Tibary

        A succinct reference for those assessing and managing the reproductive functionality of male animals, this practical manual contains both generic and species-specific information suitable for widespread worldwide application. It covers all relevant aspects such as handling and restraint, physical examination, reproductive examination, important reproductive diseases, biosecurity, semen collection and its assessment, mating behaviour, and fundamentals of semen handling and preservation for artificial breeding. A simple, concise 'go-to' for the useful techniques and procedures of animal andrology, this book: - Covers a wide range of species, including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses, water buffalo, camelids and dogs - Provides normal values and ranges for important male reproductive traits, as well as guidelines for breeding soundness evaluations - Includes extra supplementary illustrations, protocols and resources through accompanying website to enable further learning. With information presented in a manner that will remain useful for years to come, Manual of Animal Andrology is an essential resource for veterinarians, theriogenologists, animal breeders, and students of veterinary and animal sciences.

      • Trusted Partner
        Technology, Engineering & Agriculture
        September 2018

        Crossing in Oil Palm

        A Manual

        by Umi Setiawati, Baihaqi Sitepu, Fazrin Nur, Brian P Forster, Sylvester Dery, Brian P Forster, Peter D. S. Caligari

        Oil palm is the world's most important oil crop and crossing is used extensively in the production of commercial seed, breeding and genetic studies. This book illustrates crossing techniques to maximise success and safeguard purity, enabling the production of high quality seeds to grow-on as planting material and in breeding superior cultivars. Presenting sound practices based on scientific innovation in plant breeding, this guide provides techniques integrated with expertise and application of sustainable aspects of agronomy and crop protection, alongside information and imaging technology. Promoting green, eco-friendly agriculture, this book covers: biology and genetics, germplasm, target traits and commercial crossing; health and safety considerations in the field and laboratory; pollen collection and storage, pollen viability testing, and pollination; isolation of the female inflorescence; and commercial tenera production. Based on experience and protocols, this is an invaluable manual for students and researchers in agriculture, plant breeders, growers and end users interested in the practicalities of oil palm crossing for breeding and commercial seed production

      • Trusted Partner
        Technology, Engineering & Agriculture
        September 2018

        Seed Production in Oil Palm

        A Manual

        by Eddy S Kelanaputra, Steven P. C. Nelson, Umi Setiawati, Baihaqi Sitepu, Fazrin Nur, Brian P Forster, Abdul R. Purba, Brian P Forster, Peter D. S. Caligari

        This is a practical guide to seed germination in oil palm for both breeding and genetic studies as well as commercial seed production. Oil palm is the top oil crop in the world and this manual provides step-by-step illustrated methods, written by practitioners actively engaged in oil palm seed production and breeding. Presenting sound practices based on scientific innovation and knowledge, this guide brings together the many aspects of seed germination in oil palm in one place. Promoting green, eco-friendly agriculture, this book covers: Health and safety considerations Pollination and harvesting Seed preparation, viability testing and moisture testing Seed processing for commercial production and breeding Based on experience and protocols, this is an invaluable manual for students and researchers in agriculture, plant breeders, growers and end users interested in the practicalities of oil palm seed production. It is also a valuable resource for training, for those entering a career in oil palm and as a reference for managers , to ensure best practices in maximising sustainability and production of this important crop.

      • Trusted Partner
        Science & Mathematics
        July 2020

        Mason's World Dictionary of Livestock Breeds, Types and Varieties

        by Valerie Porter, Ali Thompson

        Mason's World Dictionary of Livestock Breeds, Types and Varieties, now in its sixth edition, has a long history as a reliable and authoritative source of key livestock breed information. Intended as a list of livestock names and synonyms for breeds, groups, types and varieties worldwide, the dictionary aims to include all names found in the literature, 'defining' each breed or type with a brief indication of identifying characteristics, uses and source of origin. Expanded into a new edition, this established and trusted resource: - Extends coverage to include yak, reindeer and camelids in addition to the existing cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, horses, asses and buffalo - Features well over 10,000 entries and cross-references on breeds, sub-breeds, types, varieties, strains and lines of species - Covers newly created and now-recognised local breeds documented over the last two decades An important updated work, Mason's dictionary forms a useful reference for livestock breeders and academics interested in breeds, as well as national and international organizations with interests in livestock.

      • Trusted Partner
        April 2022

        Rabbit Production

        by Steven D Lukefahr, James I McNitt, Peter Robert Cheeke, Nephi M Patton

        Rabbits are versatile animals, farmed for their meat and fur, as laboratory animals, and also as pets. This well-established book continues to provide an overview of domesticated rabbit production, covering topics such as breeding, husbandry, feeding and health. Now in its fully updated tenth edition, it includes an expanded consideration of important issues such as animal welfare and sustainable methods of production. With chapters relating specifically to meat production, pet rabbits, rabbit shows, and angora wool production, this new edition: - Includes new information on the latest methods of artificial insemination, estrous synchronization, embryo transfer, cloning and molecular genetics; - Tackles globally prevalent health issues such as enteritis complex (EC) rabbit enterocolitis (REC), and viral hemorrhagic disease; - Reviews up-to-the-minute developments such as the impact of the covid-19 pandemic on food production, as well as new projects addressing poverty alleviation and food security. Providing updates on worldwide production trends, figures and new feed additive products, this book is an essential resource for anyone involved in rabbit production - from novice to experienced breeders, veterinarians and industry professionals.

      • Trusted Partner
        Agronomy & crop production
        May 1995

        Collecting Plant Genetic Diversity

        Technical Guidelines

        by Kevin Eatwell, Gidona Goodman, Emma Keeble, Anna Meredith, Joanna Hedley. Edited by Luigi Guarino, V R Ramanatha Rao, Robert Reid.

        The case for conserving biodiversity is well established on economic as well as scientific grounds. Biodiversity is essential for sustainable development, adaptation to a changing environment and the continued functioning of the biosphere - indeed, to human survival itself. Plant breeders are dependent upon the availability of a large pool of diverse genetic material represented by local races and wild relatives, since in themselves modern crop varieties provide too restricted a genepool for further breeding. Without the ability to draw from a diverse genetic reservoir, further improvement may not be possible. It is therefore essential that guidance is available on collecting plant germplasm. In recent years it has become evident that there is no single publication that provides the prospective collector of plant germplasm with generic as well as specific, and theoretical as well as practical, information. It was to fill this gap that the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI), together with FAO, IUCN and UNEP, cooperated to produce this book. The volume is a comprehensive reference work and is aimed at both new and experienced collectors as well as those with a general interest in plant genetics, breeding and biodiversity.

      • Trusted Partner
        Technology, Engineering & Agriculture
        September 2018

        Nursery Screening for Ganoderma Response in Oil Palm Seedlings

        A Manual

        by Miranti Rahmaningsih, Ike Virdiana, Syamsul Bahri, Yassier Anwar, Brian P Forster, Frédéric Breton, Brian P Forster, Peter D. S. Caligari

        This is a hands-on, practical guide covering seedling screening for disease response in oil palm for pathology, breeding and genetics. Oil palm is the top oil crop in the world and Ganoderma is the most devastating disease of oil palm. The authors are all actively engaged in oil palm seed production and breeding and bring together the many aspects of seedling disease testing in to one integrated manual. Presenting sound practices based on scientific innovation and knowledge, this guide provides techniques integrated with expertise and also looks towards future possibilities. Promoting green, eco-friendly agriculture, this book covers: Health and safety considerations Media preparation for in vitro culture Collecting isolates and culture preparation Preparation of Ganoderma inoculum Nursery inoculation Scoring response Based on experience and protocols, this is an invaluable manual for students and researchers in agriculture, plant breeders, growers, traders and production companies interested in the practicalities of oil palm pathology. It provides a resource for training, a knowledge base for people new to oil palm and a reference guide for managers, to ensure best practices in maximising sustainability and production of this important crop.

      • Trusted Partner
        October 2021

        Yams

        Botany, Production and Uses

        by Anthony Keith Thompson, Ibok Oduro

        Dioscorea species, commonly known as yams, are tuberous plants that constitute a major staple food in many parts of Africa, South East Asia, Latin America and the South Pacific. Yams are cultivated in about 50 mainly tropical countries, and the world annual production of edible tubers is around 73 million tonnes. This book evaluates the current state of knowledge about yams, and how this knowledge affects practices in production, cultivation and postharvest technology. Dioscorea is a diverse genus in terms of its geographical origin, domestication, morphology, chemistry and breeding. Therefore, besides concentrating on the dozen or so species that are used as major food crops, the book examines species that have limited commercial or domestic value at present, but have the potential in future to contribute to the production and utilization of this crop. This book: · Covers botany, taxonomy, composition, uses, cultivation, handling, storage, diseases, pests and production. · Describes the yam industry in the main producer countries, and around 100 of the most commonly grown species. · Reviews many Dioscorea species that may be developed in the future. It is an essential resource for researchers in horticulture, yam growers, breeders and postharvest technologists.

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