The Ecology of Tropical Food Crops

The Ecology of Tropical Food Crops

Publisher
Cambridge University Press
Published
1995
Pages
—
ISBN-13
9780521410625
Format
print
Language
English
Book Summary
The Ecology of Tropical Food Crops is a comprehensive textbook that examines the environmental physiology and ecology of major tropical crops. It integrates principles of crop ecology with practical agronomy, covering cereals, legumes, root crops, and plantation crops. This scholarly work is essential for students and professionals seeking to understand how tropical environments shape crop production and how to manage them sustainably.
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About The Ecology of Tropical Food Crops

The Ecology of Tropical Food Crops provides a detailed scientific analysis of how tropical environments influence the growth, development, and yield of key food crops. The authors, respected authorities in tropical agronomy, cover the major crop groups—cereals, grain legumes, root and tuber crops, and plantation crops—through the lens of environmental physiology and ecology. The book examines the effects of temperature, radiation, water, and soil factors on crop performance, and discusses how these principles apply to practical crop management. It also addresses the challenges of sustaining production in diverse tropical ecosystems, from humid lowlands to dry savannas. With its rigorous yet accessible approach, this text remains a foundational resource for understanding the ecological basis of tropical agriculture and for developing strategies to improve food security in the tropics.

Who should read The Ecology of Tropical Food Crops?

This book is intended for undergraduate and graduate students in agronomy, crop science, ecology, and tropical agriculture. It is also valuable for researchers, extension workers, and development practitioners working on crop improvement and sustainable farming systems in tropical regions. Professionals in international agriculture and food security will find the ecological perspective useful for planning interventions. While accessible to advanced students, it assumes some background in plant physiology and ecology.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • ✓ Authoritative and comprehensive coverage of tropical crop ecology
  • ✓ Integrates ecological theory with practical agronomic management
  • ✓ Written by leading experts in tropical agriculture
  • ✓ Includes detailed case studies and examples from diverse tropical regions
  • ✓ Provides a solid foundation for sustainable crop production strategies
Cons
  • ✗ Some content may be dated as agricultural science has advanced since publication
  • ✗ Assumes prior knowledge of plant physiology and ecology
  • ✗ Focuses primarily on biological and ecological aspects, with less on socio-economic factors
  • ✗ Limited coverage of recent genetic and biotechnological innovations
  • ✗ May be too technical for general readers or beginning farmers
Frequently asked questions
Is this book suitable for self-study?
Yes, it can be used for self-study by readers with a background in plant science or agronomy, though some concepts may require supplementary reading.
Does the book cover both food and cash crops?
The focus is on food crops, including cereals, legumes, roots, and tubers, but some plantation crops that are also food sources are discussed.
Is the content still relevant given recent agricultural developments?
While some details may be outdated, the ecological principles remain fundamental and applicable to modern tropical agriculture.
Does it include information on climate change impacts?
The book predates much of the recent climate change research, so it does not specifically address contemporary climate change scenarios.
Is this book useful for farmers in the tropics?
It is more suited to students and professionals than to practical farmers, as it provides scientific background rather than direct field recommendations.

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