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      • Trusted Partner
        Technology, Engineering & Agriculture
        May 2022

        Advances in Fig Research and Sustainable Production

        by Moshe A Flaishman, Uygun Aksoy

        The common fig (Ficus carica L.) is one of the oldest fruits domesticated by humans, and is native to southwest Asia and the Mediterranean. Figs have been associated with health and prosperity since ancient times. They are rich in fibre, potassium, calcium, and iron, as well as being an important source of vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants. In recent years, increased consumption has caused fig production to shift to new countries such as Mexico, Brazil, India, and China. However, fig is a challenging fruit crop to grow. It is susceptible to insect pests and diseases as well as injuries from abiotic stress during fruit development and ripening. As a delicate fruit it also requires complicated postharvest procedures and climate change presents additional challenges. Comprising 29 chapters written by international experts, the book includes sections on: History Biology and Orchard Management Fruit Ripening and Postharvest Management Pests and Diseases Omics Analysis Cultivars and Breeding Products and Trade. This volume serves as a comprehensive reference for current and future practices of fig production, consumption, research and innovation, and is essential for academic researchers, and those involved in research and development in the fig industry.

      • Trusted Partner
        Technology, Engineering & Agriculture
        September 2023

        The Olive

        Botany and Production

        by Andrea Fabbri, Luciana Baldoni, Tiziano Caruso, Franco Famiani, Giovanni Agosteo, Barbera Giuseppe, Angjelina Belaj, Antonio Belcari, Karim Barkaoui, Giora Ben-Ari, Alon Ben-Gal, Giovanni Benelli, Rita Biasi, Iris Biton, Konstantinos Blazakis, Aureliano Bombarely, Antonio Brunori, Santa Olga Cacciola, Angelo Canale, Giovanni Caruso, Tiziano Caruso, Nicola Cinosi, Arnon Dag, Ran Erel, Daniela Farinelli, Louise Ferguson, Tommaso Ganino, Jesus A Gil-Ribes, Calero José Alfonso Gómez, Riccardo Gucci, Consolación Guerrero, Panagiotis Kalaitzis, Maurizio Lambardi, Lauri Pierre-Eric, Lorenzo León, Bianco Riccardo Lo, Enrico Maria Lodolini, Francisco Luque, Hanene Mairech, Picchi Malayka, Giulia Marino, Roberto Mariotti, Francesco Paolo Marra, G Medina-Alonso, José A Mercado, Maurizio Micheli, Soraya Mousavi, Monji Msallem, Dvora Namdar, Isabel Narváez, Elena Palomo-Ríos, Ruggero Petacchi, Pierluigi Pierantozzi, Malayka Samantha Picchi, Amalia Rosa Maria Piscopo, Fernando Pliego-Alfaro, Primo P

        The European or Mediterranean cultivated olive (Olea europaea L., subsp. europaea, var. europaea) is one of the most ancient cultivated fruit tree crops. Today, hundreds of olive varieties are grown to produce high-quality fruit for oil and for table olives consumption. The olive industry has undergone profound innovations in the past 30 years, due to scientific and technical advances, particularly in genomics, breeding, orchard management, mechanization and agro-ecology, although not all these developments are yet available to smaller producers. Olive cultivation has also spread to many countries outside the Mediterranean Basin, where it ihas been traditionally present for over 6,000 years. These new olive-growing countries are experiencing further expansion of the industry, due to increased awareness of the nutritional and health properties of extra virgin olive oil. This book is a much-needed update on olive biology and cultivation, with contributions from leading international experts, and includes: Biology Genetics and breeding Olive propagation and nursery Planting new olive orchards Horticultural management of olive orchards Plant protection Olive by-products (wood, leaves) Multifunctionality of olive groves and ecosystem services The Olive: Botany and Production is invaluable for researchers and students in horticulture and agriculture, as well as producers involved in olive orchard management.

      • Trusted Partner
        Pest control
        June 2009

        Biorational Tree Fruit Pest Management

        by Edited by Martín Aluja, Tracy C Leskey, Charles Vincent

        As the human impact upon the environment becomes more apparent and severe, the need to develop agricultural techniques that cause minimal damage to the environment has increased. This is particularly the case in the area of pest management, where integrated pest management (IPM) strategies have become a fundamental component of plant protection. Focusing on insect pests of tree fruits and combining behavioural research with crop protection applications, this book emphasizes the importance of environmentally sustainable approaches in an agroecosystem. Both experimental and applied topics are discussed, including the conceptual framework of IPM, functional and behavioural ecology of a pest, host detection mechanisms and monitoring tool development, as well as pest management case studies. Representing a comprehensive discussion of tree-fruit pest management, from the evolution, ecology and behaviour of insect pests to the implementation of applied biorational programmes, this will be essential reading for researchers as well as commercial growers and extension agents.

      • Trusted Partner
        Other technologies & applied sciences
        June 2009

        Proceedings of the XII International Symposium on Biological Control of Weeds

        by B G Rector. Edited by Mic H. Julien

        The control of invasive plant species is a global challenge, and effective biological control is a long-term solution which reduces the need for environmentally damaging chemical sprays. Covering the very latest research findings in all aspects of weed biocontrol, this comprehensive volume contains over 250 papers and abstracts across nine key themes presented at the symposium by international experts. It explores weed biology and ecology and the economic impacts, effectiveness and practical implications of weed management strategies, and will be of interest to researchers and students in plant and environmental sciences.

      • Trusted Partner
        Animal husbandry
        May 2009

        Ethology of Domestic Animals

        an Introductory Text

        by Edited by Per Jensen

        Modern farm environments are profoundly different from the natural habitats of the ancestors of today's farm animals, and through genetic selection, the appearance and behaviour of the animals themselves have also changed. However, the legacy of the ancestors is still obvious, and some apparently bizarre actions are only possible to understand in the light of the evolutionary history of the species. On the other hand, some of the behaviour we can observe in animals in a modern farm or in a laboratory are not part of the normal, species-specific behaviour at all. They may even indicate that the animal is under stress and that its welfare is poor. Distinguishing between these possibilities is one important goal for applied ethology. This revised and updated edition includes extended coverage of dog behaviour and human-animal interactions as well as novel and intriguing research findings. The issue of animal cognition, central to understanding welfare, has also received a more thorough examination.

      • Trusted Partner
        Horticulture
        April 2009

        Mango

        Botany, Production and Uses

        by Edited by Richard E Litz

        The Mango is one of the oldest cultivated fruit crops, having been grown in India for at least 4000 years. Mango is the most important fruit crop of Asia and its annual production is exceeded worldwide only by Musa, citrus, grapes and apples. The last decade has seen a rapid growth of mango production, mainly due to expansion into new growing regions but also to the adoption of modern field practices and cultivars. A wide range of fresh, mango cultivars are now consumed worldwide and are available year round. The Mango: Botany, Production and Uses, published in 1997, represented the first comprehensive examination of all aspects of modern mango production and research. Developing upon the successful first edition, this book incorporates a discussion of significant advances in mango research that have contributed to improved production and will be highly relevant for researchers and growers alike.

      • Trusted Partner
        Biotechnology
        February 2009

        Environmental Impact of Genetically Modified Crops

        by Edited by Natalie Ferry, Angharad M R Gatehouse

        The genetic modification of crops continues to be the subject of intense debate, and opinions are often strongly polarised. Environmental Impact of Genetically Modified Crops addresses the major concerns of scientists, policy makers, environmental lobby groups and the general public regarding this controversial issue, from an editorially neutral standpoint. While the main focus is on environmental impact, food safety issues, for both humans and animals are also considered. The book concludes with a discussion on the future of agricultural biotechnology in the context of sustainability, natural resource management and future global population and food supply.

      • Trusted Partner
        Irrigation
        January 2009

        Rainfed Agriculture

        Unlocking the Potential

        by Edited by S Wani, J Rockstrom, T Oweis

        Rainfed agriculture is generally overlooked by development investors, researchers and policy makers due to limited confidence in its ability to increase agricultural production and development. However, research undertaken by a team of leading scientists from global organizations demonstrates its potential in achieving food security, improving livelihoods and most importantly addressing issues of equity and poverty reduction in dryland areas - the hot spots of poverty. On the basis of case studies from varied agricultural and ecological regions in Asia and Africa, chapters discuss the need for adopting new paradigms between rainfed and irrigated agriculture, catchment/micro-watershed management approaches, upgrades in science-based development and more investments in rainfed areas. Yield gaps for major rainfed crops are analysed globally and possible ways and means including technological, social, and institutional options to bridge the yield gaps are discussed in detail. Covering areas such as rainwater harvesting and its efficient use, the rehabilitation of degraded land and assessment methods for social, environmental and economic impacts, this book will be necessary for both academics and policy makers working in water management, agriculture and sustainable development.

      • Trusted Partner
        Horticulture
        January 2009

        Grapes

        by G L Creasy, L L Creasy

        Grapes are one of the world’s most widely planted horticultural crops, used to make a variety of fresh, dried and processed products. The science of grapes and grape production are discussed through an examination of wine grapes as well as grapes for fresh consumption and raisin production. Providing historical and current information about the grape industry, chapters cover genetics, breeding and cultivars, grapevine growth, development and nutrition, climate requirements, pests and diseases and post-harvest production. This informative text thoroughly covers the influence of the environment on grapevine health and productivity, and informs the reader on how grapes are grown and factors affecting grape quality.

      • Trusted Partner
        Aquaculture & fish-farming: practice & techniques
        December 2008

        Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries

        by Edited by G Bianchi, H R Skjoldal

        The ecosystem approach to fisheries management is high on national, regional and international agendas for sustainable fisheries management. Implementing the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries covers both theoretical and applied aspects, with a particular emphasis on practical experiences in the form of case studies from around the world, and tools for solutions. Researchers, practitioners and policy makers in fisheries, aquaculture, marine biology and ecology will find this book an invaluable overview and guide to fisheries management.

      • Trusted Partner
        Animal breeding
        December 2008

        Economics of Animal Health and Production

        A practical and theoretical guide

        by Jonathan Rushton

        Illustrated with review studies on animal health economics, this book presents information on the most important economic tools applied to livestock, covering both theory and practical applications. Topics covered include gross margin analysis, partial budgeting, investment and financial appraisal and cost-benefit analysis. There are also sections on decision tree analysis, optimisation methods, value chain analysis, new institutional economics, DALYs and a range of policy analysis tools. International experts contribute on important theoretical and practical aspects of animal health and production economics, with global themes on livestock and poverty.

      • Trusted Partner
        Horticulture
        December 2008

        Tropical Root and Tuber Crops

        Cassava, Sweet Potato, Yams and Aroids

        by Vincent Lebot

        Most of the world's poorest smallholders depend on tropical roots and tubers crops as their principal source of food and nutrition. These species produce large quantities of dietary energy and have stable yields under difficult environmental conditions. The most important crops are cassava, sweet potato, yam and the aroids, sharing important common traits such as bulkiness, post-harvest perishability and vegetative propagation. This book compiles the most up to date information on the origin, genetics, physiology, agronomy, pests and diseases and post harvest processing of these crops, while attempting to provide ideas for further research and development.

      • Trusted Partner
        Agriculture & farming
        December 2008

        Sustainable Farmland Management

        New Transdisciplinary Approaches

        by Edited by R Fish, S Seymour, M Steven, Charles Watkins

        Examining the relationship between sustainability and farmland management in diffeing tempoarla spatial and production contexts - this book considers famrland multifuctionality, systems and sytemic thinking, the debates over information, knowledge and ethical aspects.

      • Trusted Partner
        Animal husbandry
        December 2008

        Resource Allocation Theory Applied to Farm Animal Production

        by Edited by Wendy Mercedes Rauw

        According to the Resource Allocation Theory, an individual’s genetic potential can only be realized in an environment in which essential food resources are adequately supplied. This book describes resource allocation patterns in natural populations, the costs, preferences and trade-offs of maintenance, growth, reproduction and immune function, the consequences of selection for high production efficiency in livestock species, methods that can be used to quantify resource allocation patterns, and the application of resource allocation theory to improve animal production and wellbeing.

      • Trusted Partner
        Animal husbandry
        November 2008

        Environmental Impacts of Pasture-based Farming

        by Edited by Richard McDowell

        Focusing on the different types of pastoral farming and their impact on the environment, Environmental Impacts of Pasture-based Farming takes a broad view of the subject, whose treatment in texts is often biased towards confined animal or grain based systems. The text is organised into two sections, the first addressing issues facing environmental quality, namely soil, water and air quality and socio-economic impacts. The second section offers commentary on how pastoral sectors influence environmental issues. With highly tuned farm productive systems comes the risk of environmental impacts, and the purpose of this text is to highlight the areas in which these risks are associated and how best to mitigate them. An approach is taken that highlights these problems, but also keeps in mind that mitigation may be too restrictive on the farming system and make farming impractical.

      • Trusted Partner
        Fertilizers & manures
        November 2008

        Ecohydrology

        Processes, Models and Case Studies

        by Edited by David M Harper, M Zalewski, Nic Pacini.

        Ecohydrology is an emerging new sub-discipline which links elements of ecology with hydrology at all points in the water cycle, ranging in scale from water-plant physiological relationships to whole catchment water-ecosystem processes. This book pays most attention to the larger scales of ecohydrology, emphasising the use of this tool in striving towards the goal of sustainable water management. Authors from Eastern as well as Western Europe; from America, Australia and South Africa, give a broad global context.

      • Trusted Partner
        Animal husbandry
        October 2008

        Principles and Applications of Domestic Animal Behavior

        by Edward O Price

        In order to understand and manage animals in their natural or captive environments we must first understand why animals do what they do and recognize limitations in their ability to adapt to different environments. Drawing on the author’s considerable experience in both teaching and research, this introductory-level textbook describes the basic principles underlying animal behavior and how those concepts can be used in managing the care of domestic and captive wild animals, covering four key themes: development of behavior, biological rhythms, social behavior and behavioral aspects of animal management. Extensively illustrated with many practical examples and over 150 photos and figures.

      • Trusted Partner
        Pest control
        October 2008

        Root Feeders

        An Ecosystem Perspective

        by Edited by Scott N Johnson, Phillip J Murray.

        Interactions between plants and herbivores can have a significant effect on plant growth and development, and ultimately, on a plant's economic value. Research has traditionally focused on aboveground herbivores, despite the considerable role that belowground herbivory by both vertebrates and invertebrates can play within a range of ecosystem processes. Root feeders have been classified as agricultural pests but can also be used as biological control agents against invasive species and can affect community dynamics of plants, soil micro-organisms and populations of aboveground organisms. Bringing together a broad range of viewpoints and approaches, Root Feeders presents a comprehensive review of knowledge on root herbivores and illustrates their importance within ecosystems. Chapters discuss problems of visualizing the organisms in the soil, their role in agriculture, grassland and forest ecosystems, and present specific case studies on the management, control and influence of root feeders. Covering all aspects from food web ecology to the effects of climate change, this will be valuable reading for researchers and professionals in agricultural entomology, plant science, ecology and soil science.

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