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Updated and revised, this bestselling textbook continues to provide a broad introduction to the key topics in the welfare of animals both large and small, farm and companion, wild and zoo. It retains all the popular features of the previous editions with coverage of key issues such as ethics, animal pain and injury, health and disease, social conditions, and welfare dilemmas and problems. Importantly, it also offers practical advice for welfare assessment, with a full section dedicated to the implementation of solutions. The third edition: - Contains many more examples of welfare issues in different countries, particularly the implications for smallholders as well as larger scale agriculture - Covers fish welfare as well as welfare of amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates - Includes concepts of positive emotion and other positive aspects of welfare - Focuses on animal welfare and sustainability - Includes an integrated ebook with additional material and videos With contributions from renowned international experts and a new editorial team, Animal Welfare, 3rd Edition is an essential resource for students and researchers in animal and veterinary sciences and other disciplines considering the science and practice of animal welfare, and for practitioners and decision-makers worldwide.

A sound knowledge of anatomy and physiology is an essential basis for the effective clinical treatment of companion animals and farm animals alike. The fifth edition of this bestselling textbook continues to provide students with a comprehensive description of the anatomy and physiology of dogs, cats, birds, exotics, farmed animals, and horses. This new edition: Contains detailed descriptions of the systematic anatomy and physiology of a wide range of animal species with expanded bird coverage for the first time. Includes applied anatomy tips that relate theory to clinical practice. Considers anatomy education not only for veterinary science students, but also those studying wider animal science, animal behaviour, or agriculture. Newly enhanced with an online test-yourself course and augmented reality animations to view on your phone and bring the subject to life, this book is an essential and easy to understand introduction for all those embarking upon a veterinary, animal science or animal management career.

Anyone who observes fruit trees may wonder how or why they behave in specific ways. Some trees grow upright while others have a spreading habit. Some produce many flowers and small immature fruit only to drop most of the fruit later on; others grow more strongly on their sunny side than their shady side. It is common to ascribe such behavior to the tree as a whole and state that trees preferentially "allocate" resources to specific organs. However, this is the wrong approach to understanding tree functioning and behavior. Trees are not in control of what they do. What trees do and how they function is shaped by the individual organs that make up the tree, not by the tree as a whole. The genetic code only indirectly determines the habit, structure and behavior of a tree by defining the behavioral and functional limits of the component organs, tissues and cells. Unlike animals that have a mechanism for collective control of the whole organism - a central nervous system - trees (and plants in general) are more appropriately considered as collections of semi-autonomous organs. These organs are dependent on one another for resources, such as water, energy and nutrients, but control their own destiny. This book presents a clear set of integrative concepts for understanding the overall physiology and growth of temperate deciduous fruit trees. The emphasis is on overarching principles rather than detailed descriptions of tree physiology or differences among the numerous species of fruit trees. Although the focus is on deciduous fruit trees, many aspects apply to evergreen fruit trees and trees that grow naturally in unmanaged situations. Highly relevant for students and researchers in pomology, horticulture and plant sciences, the book is also suitable for practitioners, extension staff, and novice fruit tree growers.

This book is an essential, thorough, very practical guide to understanding and caring for your rabbit. By following the advice in this book, both rabbit owners and veterinary health professionals report healthier and more content rabbits. Developed from the successful Norwegian text Den Store Kaninboka by the award-winning author Marit Emilie Buseth, Rabbit Behaviour, Health and Care will help you: - develop an understanding of the rabbit's nature, which will help you to spot normal and abnormal behaviour; - learn about the correct living conditions in which to keep domestic rabbits, in terms of their behavioural, physical and social needs; - acquire essential knowledge about rabbit nutrition, dentistry and disease; - discover a new and improved approach to rabbit-keeping through stories and case examples of real rabbits; - gain a rewarding owner-pet relationship. Rabbits are extremely popular pets, but misconceptions about their care and behaviour are widespread. Most illnesses or behaviour problems are a direct or indirect result of poor nutrition and care. This book helps veterinarians and rabbit owners to overcome these challenges by understanding the rabbit's nature and needs.

Nutrition is the key driver of animal health, welfare and production. In agriculture, nutrition is crucial to meet increasing global demands for animal protein and consumers' demands for cheaper meat, milk and eggs and higher standards of animal welfare. For companion animals, good nutrition is essential for quality and length of life. Animal Nutrition examines the science behind the nutrition and feeding of the major domesticated animal species: sheep, beef cattle, dairy cattle, deer, goats, pigs, poultry, alpacas, horses, dogs and cats. It includes introductory chapters on digestion and feeding standards, followed by chapters on each animal containing information on digestive anatomy and physiology, evidence-based nutrition and feeding requirements and common nutritional and metabolic diseases. Clear diagrams, tables and breakout sections make this text readily understandable, and it will be of value to tertiary students of animal nutrition and to practicing veterinarians, livestock consultants, producers and nutritionists.

A classic in the literature of herbal medicine, this book explains in simple terms the commonly occurring chemical constituents of medicinal plants, and how these react with the human body. The major classes of plant constituents, such as phenols, terpenes and polysaccharides, are described both in terms of their chemical structures and their pharmacological activities. The last 20 years has seen huge growth in research output in phytochemistry, and this edition has been thoroughly revised to incorporate up-to-date research. It contains a new chapter on resins and cannabinoids, and additional content on macrocarpals, essential oil chemotypes, mushroom polysaccharides, phytochemical synergy, and toxicology of phytochemicals. Features include: · Over 200 diagrams of chemical structures · Coverage of energetics, synergism and the emerging field of network pharmacology · New content on seaweeds and fungi, and polyphenol-rich foods · References to primary research literature in pharmacy, pharmacology, chemistry, plant biology, molecular biology, integrative medicine and many other disciplines Written by an experienced herbal practitioner, The Constituents of Medicinal Plants has become a standard textbook for courses on plant-based medicine. It is also an essential desktop reference for health practitioners, lecturers, researchers, producers, and anyone with an interest in how medicinal herbs work.

Fundamental to any livestock improvement programme by animal scientists, is the prediction of genetic merit in the offspring generation for desirable production traits such as increased growth rate, or superior meat, milk and wool production. Covering the foundational principles on the application of linear models for the prediction of genetic merit in livestock, this new edition is fully updated to incorporate recent advances in genomic prediction approaches, genomic models for multi-breed and crossbred performance, dominance and epistasis. It provides models for the analysis of main production traits as well as functional traits and includes numerous worked examples. For the first time, R codes for key examples in the textbook are provided online. The book covers: - The relationship between the genome and the phenotype. - BLUP models for various livestock data and structure. - Incorporation of related ancestral parents and metafounders in prediction models. - Models for survival analysis and social interaction. - Advancements in genomic prediction approaches and selection. - Genomic models for multi-breed and crossbred performance. - Models for non-additive genetic effects including dominance and epistasis. - Estimation of genetic parameters including Gibbs sampling approaches. - Computation methods for solving linear mixed model equations. Suitable for graduate and postgraduate students, researchers and lecturers of animal breeding, genetics and genomics, this established textbook provides a thorough grounding in both the basics and in new developments of linear models and animal genetics.

Environmental horticulture - also referred to as landscape horticulture and amenity horticulture - is the umbrella term for the horticulture that we encounter in our daily lives. With a huge increase in interest in the value of urban green space due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this updated edition is ideally placed to advocate just why green space is so important to us. This includes parks, public gardens, allotments, green roofs, sports facilities, cemeteries and shopping centres or in fact any public space which has grass, flower/foliar plantings and trees. A complete and comprehensive guide, this new edition of Environmental Horticulture: - Explores the role, value and application of horticulture in different landscapes. - Includes new content on how an urban plant functions, the therapeutic aspects of green spaces, people and urban wildlife, and specialist green spaces. - Reviews the importance and impact of horticulture on the wider environment. - Covers practical management advice for woody plants, herbaceous perennials and bulbs, meadows and semi-natural grasslands, lawn and sports turf, and interior landscapes. A vital resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students, this book is also a valuable addition to academic departments with an interest in green space management and wider environmental issues.

Plant-parasitic nematodes are a major threat to crop production in all countries, and identification of nematodes and knowledge of their biology is of paramount importance. Providing a broad introduction to nematodes as plant parasites, this book begins by describing nematodes by genera, and then builds on this foundation to detail nematode biology and pest management, including resistance, and biological and chemical control. This 3rd edition is updated to address advances in our knowledge of plant-parasitic nematodes, particularly concerning the molecular aspects of host-parasite relationships, including the application of genomics to nematode biology. Changes in control and management strategies are also covered. The influence of climate change on plant-parasitic nematodes is addressed in a new chapter on ecology. Primarily aimed at students (MSc and PhD), this book is also invaluable for researchers and lecturers in nematology, plant pathology and parasitology, advisory and quarantine services, and crop protection scientists.

The climate crisis, inequality, poverty, disease, hunger, food waste, and loss of biodiversity are all part of an extensive list of global challenges impacting us at a local level that could be addressed better by using the One Health approach. In a world where people, animals and the environment are recognized as being interconnected and interdependent, we need to work together to improve the health of people, plants, animals and ecosystems simultaneously. One Health provides the thinking, concepts, tools, and practical approaches needed to tackle health problems in a collective and collaborative way. But what is One Health, and how can we implement it in our everyday life? This textbook provides an easy to understand, straightforward description of One Health concepts, principles and methods, structured around core competencies so that everyone can contribute to addressing today's most profound global problems more efficiently and effectively. As an entry-level learning resource for anybody with an interest in better understanding and implementing One Health, it is a comprehensive yet accessible introduction for undergraduate and postgraduate students, practitioners, decision-makers and researchers across a wide range of subject specialisms.

Keeping captive tortoises healthy and well is a significant challenge. Because they are ectotherms, these reptiles are totally dependent upon external sources to maintain body temperature and therefore metabolic function. Their physical environment is vital for them to remain healthy, and as owners, we have to provide sufficient choice in the environment for them to be able to experience as near optimum conditions as we can. Covering all aspects of tortoise husbandry and welfare, this book advises on: - Suitable temperature ranges, light sources, humidity, substrate, space, and seasonal changes according to individual tortoise species; - Specific dietary requirements, and opportunities for expression of natural behaviours including reproduction. - Variety of environments, ranging across indoor and outdoor accommodation options, to achieve optimum conditions for tortoises in captivity Written by a leading clinical animal behaviourist, this book is an important read for anyone involved in tortoise welfare, from students and zoo rescue staff, to pet owners and the veterinarians advising them.

Nematodes are the most widespread multicellular animals in nature and analysis of nematodes in terrestrial, freshwater and marine environments, as well as their role and function in ecosystems, can be used for environmental biomonitoring. This new edition addresses pertinent environmental issues, for example climate change and work across large spatial scales, and how these are reflected onto nematode communities. It also discusses how nematode communities may be utilised to gain relevant knowledge to mitigate the effects of these threats. Other new topics include: -Nematodes as indicators of sustainable agriculture -Nematodes in extreme environments -Novel nematode identification approaches using image analysis and machine learning -Nematodes and environmental policy -Environmental nematology education -Recommended protocols for nematode sampling and subsequent analyses. This book provides a hands-on approach suitable for readers who wish to embark and carry out practical work in environmental nematology for the first time, and for more experienced researchers. It is suitable for nematologists, soil and aquatic ecologists, agronomists and environmental scientists.

Since the publication of the first edition of this book, professional and public concern for the well-being of animals has continued to increase throughout the world. Advances in research and technologies have yielded an enormous amount of new knowledge about animal mental health and well-being. Thoroughly updated and revised, the third edition includes: · Expanded chapters covering fear, boredom and suffering in animals, the what and why of animal fun, and the treatment of mental health disorders in animals. · New chapters covering the new classification systems concerning mental and behavioral disorders of cats and dogs, the importance of resilience and mental states, nutritional factors and recognizing emotional and psychological suffering. · New internationally renowned expert contributors joining the existing list of prestige authors. · A focus on practical information, with clinical behavioral medicine advice, hints and tips. With additional illustrations and photographs throughout, this book remains invaluable to veterinary professionals, animal welfare researchers and advocates, ethologists and other animal caregivers.

Forests cover about a third of the world's land surface area. They represent a distinct biotic community, provide a living for many millions of people, and provide fresh water to sustain communities. Forests capture part of the precipitation and pass the remainder into the soil. Some of this is then passed back to the atmosphere along with some to streams as a regulated outflow. Forest cover is generally the preferred land-use for clean water supplies, recreation, tourism, and other ecosystem benefits around the world. In many cases the value of the water exceeds the value of other forest products. The discipline "forest hydrology" was developed in the 19th and 20th Century with the aim of putting such water cycling processes into a scientific framework incorporating forest watershed management. The 21st Century has seen proliferations of new technologies that have changed society, our living environment, and this discipline. Forests are also facing unprecedented threats from land conversion, fire, drought, and the changing climate. The discipline of forest hydrology must address these issues with innovation and new ideas. The 2nd Edition of Forest Hydrology: - Presents advances of understanding of key forest hydrologic processes (particularly evapotranspiration) - Presents cutting-edge thinking and assessments in global forest hydrology, including state-of-the-art modelling and methodologies - Presents innovative findings about the impacts of forest fires on the rate of catchment formation and how past fires have led to the catchments we take for granted - Describes the latest challenges facing forest hydrology, such as increased occurrences of disturbance due to extreme precipitation and floods, drought, disease, fire, and their association with climate change - Reviews the latest perceptions of the value of forested catchments compared to alternatives such as desalination plants - Is written by an internationally renowned team of scientists, engineers, and forest managers to give a well-rounded view of the subject This book is essential reading for graduate students, professionals, land managers, practitioners, and researchers with a good understanding of the basic principles of hydrology and hydrologic processes.

Theories and models are crucial components of academic research, aiding the processes of formulating hypotheses, data collection and analysis, and interpretation, to name just a few. This comprehensive book unravels knowledge generation through theory and model exploration within the fields of tourism and hospitality. An introductory chapter aids the reader in unveiling the significance of theories and models as powerful tools for understanding and discovery, while two further sections, "Theories and Approaches in Tourism and Hospitality Research" and "Models and Frameworks in Tourism and Hospitality Research", contain thematic chapters. Each chapter unveils the origin, nature, and definition of theories and models, demonstrating their applications in the field. Engaging examples exemplify their real-world impact, enriching the reader's understanding. Designed for scholars, young researchers, academics, and students, this book is an indispensable resource for ensuring the rigor and relevance of academic investigations in tourism and hospitality research.

This book provides an up-to-date account of what is known about the tick-borne protozoan parasite Theileria parva. Disease caused by T. parva in cattle, particularly East Coast Fever, is one of the most important constraints to improving livestock productivity in eastern and southern Africa. Despite extensive research efforts, control and prevention of the disease is extremely challenging and, by placing a substantial economic burden on resource-poor livestock owners, it is a key factor in perpetuating poverty in rural communities. Beginning with a brief history, the book provides: - An account of the biology and distribution of the parasite, its tick vector and the nature of the disease, including immunity and genetic resistance. - A review of measures used for its control or prevention. - Important ancillary information which is not readily accessible in the scientific literature. - A concluding discussion of recommended research priorities for the future. The book brings together current knowledge about the parasite into a single volume for the first time in decades and forms a valuable resource for all researchers of human and animal protozoal diseases. It will also be of major interest to animal health workers, livestock farmers, government policy makers, scientific advisors and donor organizations.

An established favourite with veterinary and agricultural students and a valuable addition to the library of any veterinarian or sheep farmer, this handbook covers the basics of sheep medicine and production. Geared at being an easily accessed reference, it clearly conveys fundamental information on the care and treatment of sheep worldwide. This fully updated and revised eighth edition: - continues to cover all important aspects of sheep production and health, including reproduction, vaccination, pregnancy and newborns, lameness, internal and external parasites and flock health promotion; - reviews general developments and advancements in sheep veterinary medicine, as well as disease prevalence by geographical spread and in relation to changing climate; - considers topics of increasing importance such as vaccine availability and drug resistance. An emphasis on diagnosis and treatment combined with short, easily-digestible chapters and step-by-step diagrams makes this book an essential practical guide to recognizing, treating and preventing disease.

As the global human population continues to grow, the competing demands we place on our planet are increasingly difficult to balance. Nowhere is this more evident than in our need to produce ever more food and energy without threatening the climate and the survival of other species. While decision making about land use was historically the concern of farmers and landowners, more recently land use has become a topic of heated public debate and in-depth discussions with regards to carbon neutrality, eating less meat and creating and using sustainable green energy, alongside ongoing agricultural intensification. The choices we make about what we eat and how we use land to produce it are thus more important than ever and must be balanced against their environmental impacts to ensure the future sustainability of our planet. In addressing these issues this book: · Reviews the scientific evidence for the environmental impact of different human land management activities and how we can collectively address climate change and biodiversity loss. · Examines the credibility of controversial claims made about land use and nutritional choices in the context of the online culture wars focused on the environment. · Provides guidance to shape the future perspective of policy makers. Written for those studying, researching or interested in agriculture, conservation, ecology, forestry and land use, this book explores the various strands of evidence that contribute to the debate around food choice and sustainable land use and discusses the impact of a growing population on the future of human land management.

As the global human population continues to grow, the competing demands we place on our planet are increasingly difficult to balance. Nowhere is this more evident than in our need to produce ever more food and energy without threatening the climate and the survival of other species. While decision making about land use was historically the concern of farmers and landowners, more recently land use has become a topic of heated public debate and in-depth discussions with regards to carbon neutrality, eating less meat and creating and using sustainable green energy, alongside ongoing agricultural intensification. The choices we make about what we eat and how we use land to produce it are thus more important than ever and must be balanced against their environmental impacts to ensure the future sustainability of our planet. In addressing these issues this book: · Reviews the scientific evidence for the environmental impact of different human land management activities and how we can collectively address climate change and biodiversity loss. · Examines the credibility of controversial claims made about land use and nutritional choices in the context of the online culture wars focused on the environment. · Provides guidance to shape the future perspective of policy makers. Written for those studying, researching or interested in agriculture, conservation, ecology, forestry and land use, this book explores the various strands of evidence that contribute to the debate around food choice and sustainable land use and discusses the impact of a growing population on the future of human land management.

The insect Order Lepidoptera is one of the four megadiverse groups of insects globally. The vast majority of the Order are moths and the unique Australian fauna has long been of interest to scientists and other enthusiasts. Australian Moths: a Natural History presents a synthesis of much of the research work that has occurred over the last 30 years on the Australian moth fauna, focussing on the ecology, evolution and natural history of this key Order of insects. All the chapters are authored by experts currently active in the field. Following introductory material, the chapters fall into three broad categories. Seven chapters present general accounts of the fauna ranging from the history of its discovery (including Indigenous knowledge), through origin and evolution, community ecology, to conservation. A central block of chapters describes key groups of Australian moths which have radiated extensively in Australia, followed by chapters summarizing knowledge on key species. These species are of particular economic, social or conservation significance. The book closes with a chapter on key knowledge gaps as a challenge to future researchers and naturalists. The work is essential reading for research students, senior scientists, conservationists, pest managers and amateur entomologists. It aims to promote moths as exciting and productive subjects for further study, enthusiasm and admiration.

The lure of the ocean has inspired exploration, trade, and adventure for centuries, but today, it also poses one of tourism's greatest paradoxes. The cruise industry, built on the beauty of the sea, contributes to the very pressures threatening its future. Can an industry so often seen as incompatible with sustainability chart a new course? This book takes readers on a deep dive into that question. Written by leading experts and industry voices, the book reveals the environmental, social, cultural and regulatory challenges shaping the future of cruising, and the creative solutions to address them. Each chapter explores an aspect of the many sustainability challenges, from ship design and consumer behavior to pollution, regulation, food waste, workforce ethics, and destination impacts, and uncovers what it really takes to make cruising sustainable. Engaging, insightful, and practical, this book bridges the gap between research and real-world action. Through case studies, key takeaways, and inspiring examples, it shows how the cruise industry can chart a more responsible course that honours both people and planet.

With fish considered an important component of a well-balanced human diet in many industrialized nations and the primary source of animal protein in many less-developed countries, it is increasingly necessary to ensure the health of those aquatic species on which our food security relies. Focusing on protozoan and metazoan parasites that cause disease and mortality in economically important captive and wild fish populations, this second edition of Fish Parasites: Pathobiology and Protection provides an update on the latest research in the field of fish parasitology. It concentrates on parasites that have a financial impact on the aquaculture industry, those that have been introduced to new regions through infected fish, those that are pathogenic to groups of fish and detrimental to production, those that are highly adaptable and not host-specific with worldwide distributions and those that may serve as disease models for studies on other pathogens. For each parasite, this book provides: An introduction to the species, including description, life cycle, hosts, geographical distribution and impact on fish production. A pathobiology, such as diagnosis, clinical signs, lesions, disease mechanism, pathophysiology, and factors that enhance or reduce parasite multiplication. Protection and control strategies, including vaccination and protective mechanisms, chemotherapy and immunochemotherapy, environmental modification and vector control. Synthesizing more than a decade of further research and discovery since the publication of the first book, this new edition provides a vital resource for research scientists, fish health consultants and managers of laboratories working in the aquaculture sector. It is also valuable for fish health specialists and graduate students working on the diseases of aquatic organisms and anyone interested in aquaculture, fisheries or parasitology.

Completely revised and updated throughout, this new edition of Improving Animal Welfare: A Practical Approach continues to provide an accessible and comprehensive guide to improving the lives of production animals. It particularly considers advances in topics of increasing importance such as heat stress and other climate-related issues, system-specific considerations around organic farming, measuring the true sustainability of farming systems, and how to successfully transfer rapidly developing technologies from research to field. It also covers: - Core concepts of animal welfare, such as handling and transport, stockmanship, husbandry procedures and euthanasia, with an increased focus on replacing painful procedures with alternatives. - The wider context of welfare, including animal behaviour and emotions, ethics and economic factors. - Implementing effective measurement techniques to track and improve welfare, as well auditing procedures. - Practical species-specific information across cattle, pigs, poultry, fish and equids. Written by a team of experienced researchers and edited by an outstanding world expert on animal welfare, this book is essential reading for students and practitioners of ethology, animal and veterinary science, veterinary medicine, as well as anyone working directly with farm animals and committed to improving their welfare.

Completely revised and updated throughout, this new edition of Improving Animal Welfare: A Practical Approach continues to provide an accessible and comprehensive guide to improving the lives of production animals. It particularly considers advances in topics of increasing importance such as heat stress and other climate-related issues, system-specific considerations around organic farming, measuring the true sustainability of farming systems, and how to successfully transfer rapidly developing technologies from research to field. It also covers: - Core concepts of animal welfare, such as handling and transport, stockmanship, husbandry procedures and euthanasia, with an increased focus on replacing painful procedures with alternatives. - The wider context of welfare, including animal behaviour and emotions, ethics and economic factors. - Implementing effective measurement techniques to track and improve welfare, as well auditing procedures. - Practical species-specific information across cattle, pigs, poultry, fish and equids. Written by a team of experienced researchers and edited by an outstanding world expert on animal welfare, this book is essential reading for students and practitioners of ethology, animal and veterinary science, veterinary medicine, as well as anyone working directly with farm animals and committed to improving their welfare.

This new edition integrates the new wave of Cannabis research with older information never before translated into English. It is a compendium of information on insect pests, fungal and oomycete diseases, virus and mycoplasma diseases, bacteria, nematodes, assorted parasitic plants, and other pests (including mites, molluscs, birds and mammals). The contents have been grouped into sections, in order to make it easier for the reader to identify and trouble-shoot their pest and disease problems. For example, the section on arthropod pests is divided into chapters depending on which part of the plant is affected, e.g. insects and mites that suck fluids; insects that chew flowering tops; insects that chew stalks and branches; insects that chew leaves; and insects associated with young seedlings and roots. Similarly, the section on diseases contains chapters on flowering top diseases; wilts, blights and root rots; leaf and stalk diseases; damping off diseases; and epiphytes and endophytes. The final section provides an extensive overview of the biological, natural and chemical solutions to the pests and diseases of hemp, with details on products, application methods and dosages. The text is structured to serve both technical and general readers: general information in early chapters provides a conceptual framework for technical information presented later in the book.

In a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape, smallholder farmers face unprecedented challenges that demand innovative solutions. This book highlights the crucial role of effective farm management in enabling smallholder farmers to prosper amidst these changing conditions. It advocates for viewing 'farming as a business': an approach that not only drives success but also attracts young people to agriculture as a rewarding profession. By adopting a business mindset, smallholder farmers can transform their agricultural activities into more resilient and profitable enterprises, even in the face of economic and environmental uncertainties. Drawing from decades of practical experience and field insights, the authors demonstrate how successful modern farming hinges on adopting new technologies and decision-making tools. They emphasize the importance of equipping farmers with the skills needed to make informed, strategic choices that enhance profitability and sustainability. This practical guidance is tailored to address the realities of smallholder farming in low-income countries, where resources are often limited and risk management is vital. The book also explores the essential role of farm business management advice (both public and private) as a foundation of modern agricultural advisory services. By elaborating on the significance of pluralistic advisory support, including the transformative use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), the book underscores how these innovations empower smallholder farmers to make better management decisions and navigate the complexities of contemporary agriculture. This book: Emphasizes the role of extension services in helping smallholder farmers make good business decisions. Considers the role of farming as a business in increasing the security of livelihoods. Focuses on the importance of decision making in adopting agricultural innovations. This book is highly relevant for students of development studies programmes with a specialization in agricultural development, especially in relation to agribusiness and food security. It will also be of value to professionals in the donor and NGO community involved in investment, production and marketing decisions related to farmers and farming.

Strigolactones are a class of plant hormones that play a crucial role in regulating plant growth, development, and responses to environmental stresses. These compounds were initially identified for their role in stimulating the germination of parasitic plants, but recent research has uncovered their broader significance in plant biology. Strigolactones influence various aspects of plant architecture, including shoot branching, root development, and leaf senescence. Moreover, they act as signalling molecules that help plants adapt to nutrient-deficient conditions and other environmental stresses. Understanding the multifaceted roles of strigolactones is essential for developing strategies to improve crop yield and resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions. The book provides an in-depth understanding of the role of strigolactones in plant growth and development. It explores the molecular pathways and mechanisms by which strigolactones exert their effects, and the potential applications of strigolactones in enhancing crop yield and stress resilience. It is suitable for researchers in plant science and agriculture, agronomists and agricultural consultants, and plant breeders and biotechnologists.

Breeding for improved results is not a new phenomenon, but with current issues such as climate change, food insecurity and the need for greater sustainability within the agriculture industry, breeding and genetic improvement is a fundamental aspect of animal science. Bringing together the three main areas of animal breeding into one text, this book combines quantitative genetics and the methodology for animal genetic improvement, specific aspects of livestock species genetics, and a review of how genetic improvement companies are organized and their selection programs. Written with a student focus for those studying animal agriculture and animal science, it covers the quantitative genetics needed to apply genetic improvement methods, selection indices, use of the linear model in genetic improvement, and genomic selection and gene detection. It also expands into breed and conservation programs, genetic improvement schemes in both prolific and low-prolific species, and the future of animal genetic improvement. This book: - Aids learning, organized with each chapter benefiting from an introduction to the main topics to be learnt, and ending with a list of important main concepts, problems to be solved (with their solutions) and a test for self-assessment. - Supplies further mathematical demonstrations in handy extra appendices. - Uses examples from across pigs, poultry, rabbits, cattle, sheep, goats to provide a rounded overview of the topic. Beyond knowing how to apply a program in R or Python, it is essential that students understand the fundamental concepts of quantitative genetics. Providing an essential skill for their training, this book also aids professional development, and ensures sound interpretation of the results of selection programs.

Predicting plant gene functions using AI-enhanced genomic prediction models is becoming a key component in crop breeding. This technology will significantly advance the development of new crops resistant to a wide range of stresses. This book describes the application of AI-enhanced genomic prediction models and their integration with high-throughput technology, such as smart phenotyping, multiple omics data from metabolomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics, to accelerate crop improvement. Written by a team of experts in this field, this book describes new methods for the production of climate change-ready, disease-resistant, stress-resilient crops by advancing the next generation of plant breeding tools. It is an ideal reference for readers working in all aspects of plant sciences and agricultural biotechnology, particularly plant stress physiology and crop breeding. The book: Describes AI-empowered models for accelerating plant genomic selection Comprehensively reviews omics-assisted genomic prediction for crop breeding Includes ways to develop climate change-ready and disease-resistant future crops