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.