B. Michael Cooke – författare

Plant disease epidemiology is a dynamic science that forms an essential part of the study of plant pathology. This book brings together a team of 35 international experts. Each chapter deals with an essential component of the subject and allows the reader to fully understand how each exerts its influence on the progress of pathogen populations in plant populations over a defined time scale. Since the first edition of the text was published in 1998, many new developments have occurred in the subjects covered, particularly molecular diagnostics, modelling, fungicide resistance and information technology. The second edition of the book is a comprehensive text on all aspects of plant disease epidemiology that should serve as an invaluable reference work for those involved in this fascinating science of crop plants.

The main theme of the book is sustainable disease management in a European context. Some of the questions addressed are: How does society benefit from plant pathology research? How can new molecular approaches solve relevant problems in disease management? What other fields can we exploit in plant pathology research? What challenges are associated with free trade across the new borders? How can we contribute to solving problems of developing countries? How does plant pathology contribute to food quality and safety? How does globalization/internationalization affect teaching and extension in plant pathology?

Knowledge of downy mildew pathogens and diseases has increased significantly in taxonomy, phylogeny, genetics, molecular biology, host-parasite interactions, ecology, epidemiology and control. The opportunity to update comprehensively the major advances in these areas was created by the 2nd International Symposium on Downy Mildews held in July 2007 at Olomouc (Czech Republic). Keynote contributions from this meeting are published here in 14 chapters that provide the most authoritative and recent analysis of these biotrophic plant pathogens and their interactions with plants. It will be an invaluable resource to students and researchers in plant pathology, mycology, taxonomy, plant biology and crop protection.