Principles and Practices in Plant Ecology: Allelochemical Interactions

Principles and Practices in Plant Ecology: Allelochemical Interactions

 
• Discusses ecosystem-level perspective of allelochemical research, using the most recent data and novel interpretation of data by scientists of international repute
• Offers a global perspective on allelochemical research by presenting contributions from scientists in 13 countries, reviewed by over 50 experts
• Considers the complex nature of allelochemical research and the effect of various abiotic and biotic stresses on modes of action of allelochemicals, including extraction of allelochemicals from soil and sampling procedures; outlines of analytical methods for different classes of allelochemicals; and allelochemical research in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems
• Examines topics of wide interest not often discussed in recent publications, including pollen allelopathy, allelopathic bacteria, behavior of allelochemicals in the soil environment, and effects of allelochemicals on soil nutrient dynamics
• Explains how allelopathy research is conducted, including improved bioassays for allelopathy and new techniques for improved extraction of allelochemicals from substratum

Principles and Practices in Plant Ecology: Allelochemical Interactions provides insights and details recent progress about allelochemical research from the ecosystem standpoint. Research on chemical ecology of allelochemicals in the last three decades has established this field as a mature science that interrelates the research of biologists, weed and crop scientists, agronomists, natural product chemists, microbiologists, ecologists, soil scientists, and plant physiologists and pathologists. This book demonstrates how the influence of allelochemicals on the various components of an ecosystem-including soil microbial ecology, soil nutrients, and physical, chemical, and biological soil factors-may affect growth, distribution, and survival of plant species. Internationally renowned experts discuss how a better understanding of allelochemical phenomena can lead to true sustainable agriculture.