This book describes the experimental and analytical methodologies available for the genetical analysis of qualitative, quasi-quantitative and quantitative traits and its applications in practical plant breeding and evolution. Models for studying quantitative genetic variation following Birmingham and Edinburgh notations are described. The statistics used is simple and systematic so that the reader will have no difficulty in solving problems in plant genetics. It describes the genetic principles and provides breeding procedures underlying various breeding methods for manipulating qualitative, quasi-quantitative and quantitative traits. It takes into account the latest developments in breeding methodologies including dihaiploidy and apomixis, applications of tissue culture for plant breeding use, genetic engineering for production of transgenics and hybrids, and molecular marker technologies in the analysis of quantitative trait loci, marker assisted selection, evolution and conservation of genetic resources. This book will be useful for undergraduates, postgraduates, teachers and researchers working in the field of genetics and plant breeding.

Genetic improvement has played a vital role in enhancing the yield potential of vegetable crops. There are numerous vegetable crops grown worldwide and variable degrees of research on genetics, breeding and biotechnology have been conducted on these crops. This book brings together the results of such research on crops grouped as alliums, crucifers, cucurbits, leaf crops, tropical underground and miscellaneous. Written by eminent specialists, each chapter concentrates on one crop and covers cytology, genetics, breeding objectives, germplasm resources, reproductive biology, selection breeding methods, heterosis and hybrid seed production, quality and processing attributes and technology. This unique collection will be of great value to students, scientists and vegetable breeders as it provides a reference guide on genetics, breeding and biotechnology of a wide range of vegetable crops.

This book attempts to present a readable format on plant breeding principles and their application, based on the collective experience of the three authors, but with a heavy dependence on the scientific literature. Modem pedagogy recognizes that teaching can occur when students are motivated to learn. Subject matter must be communicated in an interesting, appealing, and understandable fashion. In preparing the text, every effort has been made to translate pertinent plant breeding references into a clear, logical, and comprehensible format for those studying the challenging and dynamic field of plant breeding.

Quantitative Genetics and Selection in Plant Breeding.

Global climate change has created unprecedented challenges for human civilization due to its widespread adverse consequences, including a reduction in crop yield and threatening food security across the globe. Among the crop plants, legumes have great potential for ameliorating global warming since they can reduce carbon emissions by lowering reliance on the application of chemical fertilizers, by increasing nitrification and carbon sequestration in soil, and by providing protein-rich diets to both humans and livestock. This book identifies the extent of climate-induced stresses on legume plants and focuses on achieving food security through sustainable agricultural practices. This book compiles recent research findings and reviews on climate-related problems, the potential of legumes in ameliorating the impacts of climate change, as well as better management of agricultural land and practices for achieving environmental sustainability and food security. This book will serve as guidelines for scientists, agricultural practitioners, and policymakers working to achieve food security and better management of climate-induced stresses in agricultural interventions. It will also be useful as a reference book for researchers and students of both graduate and postgraduate levels. Furthermore, this book will provide enhanced knowledge about the mechanisms of yield and stress tolerance of legumes as well as developing climate-smart crops and improving cropping systems for a sustainable environment and food security. Features of the book Reviews trends of global climate change and its consequences for food security across the continents Identifies the challenges and scopes of cultivating legumes in achieving food security in the context of global climate change Focuses on the improvements of legume production through conservation approaches in agricultural practices and modern techniques, including omics-based breeding, biotechnology, genetic engineering, and rhizobium technology Discusses the sustainable amelioration options for soils affected by climate-induced stresses Cites examples of applications of rhizobium technologies in reducing greenhouse gas emission Describes pathways associated with yield, resistance, and tolerance of legumes to climate-induced stresses