Plant genetic engineering has revolutionized our ability to produce genetically improved plant varieties. Large proportions of our major crops have undergone genetic improvement through the use of recombinant DNA technology, and micro-organisms play an important role in this development. The book focuses on genetic engineering of plants for horticu

Plant genetic engineering has revolutionized our ability to produce genetically improved plant varieties. A large portion of our major crops have undergone genetic improvement through the use of recombinant DNA techniques in which microorganisms play a vital role. The cross-kingdom transfer of genes to incorporate novel phenotypes into plants has u

The application of microbial biotechnology to horticulture is of great importance, because it has the potential to increase productivity, to enhance quality and shelf-life of the produce and to develop novel techniques in food processing and for conversion of horticultural wastes into renewal energy sources. In addition, a wide array of scientific

The application of microbial biotechnology to horticulture is of great importance, because it has the potential to increase productivity, to enhance quality and shelf-life of the produce and to develop novel techniques in food processing and for conversion of horticultural wastes into renewal energy sources. In addition, a wide array of scientific

This volume is the second of the new two-volume Plant Biotechnology set. This volume covers many recent advances in the development of transgenic plants that have revolutionized our concepts of sustainable food production, cost-effective alternative energy strategies, microbial biofertilizers and biopesticides, and disease diagnostics through plant biotechnology. With the advancements in plant biotechnology, many of the customary approaches are out of date, and an understanding of new updated approaches is needed. This volume presents information related to recent methods of genetic transformation, gene silencing, development of transgenic crops, biosafety issues, microbial biotechnology, oxidative stress, and plant disease diagnostics and management. Key features: Provides an in-depth knowledge of various techniques of genetic transformation of plants, chloroplast, and fungus Describes advances in gene silencing in plants Discusses transgenic plants for various traits and their application in crop improvement Looks at genetically modified foods and biodiesel production Describes biotechnological approaches in horticultural and ornamental plants Explores the biosafety aspect associated with transgenic crops Considers the role of microbes in sustainable agriculture

Tuber and root crops are the third important group of food crops after cereals and pulses, feeding about one fifth of the world population. With the burgeoning population coupled with limited land, water and other resources, the future beckons tuber and root crops in fulfilling the country's food requirements. These crops have higher biological efficiency and greater adoption with profound production potential per unit area per unit time. Tuber and root crops are well known from time immemorial as nature's energy bank and famine savior. This book is conceived to have an updated version on the tuber and root crops especially in the Indian context, including information on the history, biodiversity, geographical distribution, botany, neutraceutical and pharmaceutical values, new varieties, production technologies, IPM strategies, starches, post harvest technologies and value added products, bio-processing, biotechnology, ITK and future thrusts. Various aspects of cassava, sweet potato, elephant foot yam, taro, yams, coleus, yam bean and arrow root are elucidated in 17 s and appendices. This book will be of immense use to the policy makers, scientists, post graduate and under graduate students and officials concerned with tuber and root crops research, development and extension.

This book presents several pre- and postharvest strategies that have been developed to modify these physiological activities, resulting in increased shelf life. The book also discusses the best technologies that positively influence quality attributes of the produce, including senescenal changes and, afterwards, the consumers’ decision to purchase the product in the marketplace. With contributions from experts with experience in both developed and developing regions, the book includes chapters covering thorough discussions on postharvest management strategies of fresh horticultural commodities.

Tropical root and tuber crops form an important group of food crops for millions of people (about one-fifth of the world population), especially those living in the tropical and sub-tropical zones. Tuber crops are the third important food crops after cereals and grain legumes. The carbohydrates synthesized in the leaves and stored in the form of starch in the underground roots and tubers, which are not only for food, but also a raw material for several industries. Among the many tuber crops available, only a few have been domesticated and widely cultivated for edible and industrial purposes. This book addresses the principal issues connected with selected tuber and root crops, their origin, global distribution, cultivation details, and their global commercial potential, vis-à-vis the end products made out of them (value addition). Among the crops, sweet potato, cassava, yams, colocasia, west Indian arrowroot, asparagus, safed musli, Indian Bread root and gloria superba will be discussed. From various projections, it is evident that by the year 2050 the world population will face a serious food shortage, if current trends in cereals consumption is taken intoaccount. That is why root and tuber crops assume great importance. Contrary to the high-fertility soils, which are a requirement for principal cereals like rice and wheat, root and tuber crops can grow quite well in poor soils, under varying climatic conditions.

Find out how biotechnology can produce more nutritious fruits and vegetables, more colorful flowers, and grass that needs less waterand mowing! Plant Biotechnology in Ornamental Horticulture presents an in-depth overview of the key scientific and technical advances, issues, and challenges in one of the fastest growing segments of

Covers important aspects of wine making Discusses the composition and nutrition of wine Focuses on the findings of wine and health, based on the scientific/clinical trials Delineates the role of microbiology and biochemistry of wine Examines the toxicology and safety considerations of wine consumption Outlines various aspects of viticultural issues in wine making Discusses various applied facets of wine production and consumption.