Handbook of Seed Science and Technology

A reference text with the latest information and research for educators, students, and researchers!

World hunger and malnutrition remain an alarming concern that spurs researchers to develop quality technology. The Handbook of Seed Science and Technology is an extensive reference text for educators, students, practitioners, and researchers that focuses on the underlying mechanisms of seed biology and the impact of powerful biotechnological approaches on world hunger, malnutrition, and consumer preferences. This comprehensive guide provides the latest available research from noted experts pointing out the likely directions of future developments as it presents a wealth of seed biology and technological information.

Seed science is the all-important foundation of plant science study. The Handbook of Seed Science and Technology provides an integrative perspective that takes you through the fundamentals to the latest applications of seed science and technology. This resource provides a complete overview, divided into four sections: Seed Developmental Biology and Biotechnology; Seed Dormancy and Germination; Seed Ecology; and Seed Technology.

The Handbook of Seed Science and Technology examines:

the molecular control of ovule development

female gametophyte development

cytokinins and seed development

grain number determination in major grain crops

metabolic engineering of carbohydrate supply in plant reproductive development

enhancing the nutritive value of seeds by genetic engineering

the process of accumulation of seed proteins and using biotechnology to improve crops

synthetic seeds

dormancy and germination

hormonal interactions during dormancy release and germination

photoregulation of seed germination

seed size

seed predation

natural defense mechanisms in seeds

seed protease inhibitors

soil seed banks

the ecophysiological basis of weed seed longevity in the soil

seed quality testing

seed vigor and its assessment

diagnosis of seed-borne pathogens

seed quality in vegetable crops

vegetable hybrid seed production

practical hydration of seeds of tropical crops

seed technology in plant germplasm

The Handbook of Seed Science and Technology is extensively referenced and packed with tables and diagrams, and makes an essential source for students, educators, researchers, and practitioners in seed science and technology.