The Evolutionary Ecology of Plant Disease

Ecologists and evolutionary biologists are exploring the terrain of plant disease ecology, investigating topics such as how pathogens shape diversity in plant communities, how features of plant-microbe interactions evolve, and how biological invasions, climate change, and other agents of global change can drive disease emergence. This textbook seeks to unite the research communities of plant disease ecology and plant pathology by bridging this gap.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 16 May 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Understanding the intricate symbiosis between plants and pathogenic microbes is a crucial aspect of effective disease management in crops and managed forests. At the same time, the complex web of plant-pathogen interactions encompasses a wide range of ecological relationships that are both powerful and often overlooked. Ecologists and evolutionary biologists are actively delving into the realm of plant disease ecology, exploring diverse topics such as the impact of pathogens on plant community diversity, the evolution of characteristics of plant-microbe interactions, including host range and mutualism/antagonism, and the potential consequences of biological invasions, climate change, and other agents of global change on the emergence of diseases.

Traditional training in ecology and evolutionary biology often lacks structured exposure to plant pathology or microbiology, and training in plant pathology often lacks a deep understanding of the theoretical frameworks of evolutionary ecology or includes examples from complex wild ecosystems. To address this gap, this innovative textbook aims to bring together the research communities of plant disease ecology and plant pathology, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.

The textbook begins by providing a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of plant pathology, including the biology and ecology of pathogens, their modes of infection, and the mechanisms of disease development. It then delves into the diverse plant-pathogen interactions, exploring the factors that influence host range, mutualism/antagonism, and the evolution of resistance. The book also discusses the impact of environmental factors, such as climate change, on disease emergence and the role of plant-pathogen interactions in ecosystem functioning.

In addition to theoretical discussions, the textbook includes case studies and practical examples from both cultivated and wild plant ecosystems, illustrating the application of plant disease ecology and plant pathology principles in real-world situations. These examples help students to connect the theoretical concepts with practical applications and to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of plant-pathogen interactions.

By bridging the gap between plant disease ecology and plant pathology, this textbook provides a valuable resource for students, researchers, and practitioners in the fields of agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and environmental science. It offers a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of the key concepts and methodologies in these fields, enabling individuals to contribute to the management and conservation of plant health and biodiversity.

In conclusion, understanding the symbiosis between plants and pathogenic microbes is essential for effective disease management in crops and managed forests. The complex web of plant-pathogen interactions encompasses a wide range of ecological relationships that are both powerful and often overlooked. This innovative textbook seeks to unite the research communities of plant disease ecology and plant pathology, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. By providing a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of plant pathology, exploring diverse plant-pathogen interactions, and illustrating practical applications, the textbook offers a valuable resource for students, researchers, and practitioners in the fields of agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and environmental science.

Weight: 742g
Dimension: 189 x 246 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198797883