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Books in Agricultural and biological sciences

The Agricultural and Biological Sciences collection advances science-based knowledge for the improvement of animal and plant life and for secure food systems that produce nutritious, novel, sustainable foods with minimal environmental impact. Food Science titles include not only those products from agriculture but all other aspects from food production to nutrition, health and safety, chemistry to security, policy, law and regulation. Biological Sciences address animal behaviour and biodiversity, organismal and evolutionary biology, entomology, marine biology and aquaculture, plant science and forestry.

  • Zero-Waste Technologies in Aquaculture

    Global Perspectives and Methods toward a Circular Economy
    • 1st Edition
    • Soibam Khogen Singh + 3 more
    • English
    Zero-Waste Technologies in Aquaculture: Global Perspectives and Methods toward a Circular Economy addresses the crucial aspects of waste management, available strategies for attaining a circular economy, and novel technologies to improve the sustainability of the aquaculture industry. As global demand for fish and fish products grows, commercial aquaculture operations must optimize resource utilization and reduce environmental impacts to ensure sustainable scaleup. This book discusses promising technologies like biofloc, aquaponics, recirculating aquaculture systems, integrated multi-trophic aquaculture, microbial fermentation, insect-mediated bioconversion, and algal-based waste utilization. Written and edited by a diverse team of experts, Zero-Waste Technologies in Aquaculture bridges disciplines in aquaculture, biology, and environmental engineering. It opens by addressing the recent history, significance, and challenges of global aquaculture expansion to provide context for these diverse audiences. Subsequent chapters explore proven, novel, and emerging technologies for wastewater treatment, solid waste recovery and valorization, and sustainable, environmentally conscious system scaleup. This is an essential read for aquaculturists, aquatic biologists, environmental scientists, and those interested in the economics of fish production.
  • The Fauna of Australia’s Tropical Savanna Biome

    Biodiversity, Biogeography, and Conservation
    • 1st Edition
    • Alan Andersen + 1 more
    • English
    The Fauna of Australia's Tropical Savanna Biome: Biodiversity, Biogeography and Conservation considers the full range of vegetation types and freshwater systems that occur within the dominant savanna matrix in Australia's monsoonal tropics. Edited by renowned experts of tropical ecology, it provides descriptions of diversity, taxonomic, functional composition and endemism, and ecological and biogeographical questions of wide interest. Chapters explore how diversity and composition vary among different habitats in a savanna landscape and along the savanna rainfall gradient. The book also considers how distinctive savanna fauna is within Australia and compared with tropical savannas elsewhere in the world. The book considers the unique biogeographic and evolutionary history of this highly diverse and distinctive biome, building on a rich foundation of knowledge accrued over decades of research on many aspects of the region's biodiversity, conservation values, and challenges. This is an indispensable resource for students and researchers studying tropical biodiversity, as well as conservationists and land managers of Australia's tropical savanna biome and those found across the globe.
  • Evaluating Oral Probiotics and Prebiotics

    • 1st Edition
    • Amir Mortazavian + 2 more
    • English
    Evaluating Oral Probiotics and Prebiotics reviews emerging applications of new probiotic strains, postbiotics, and production of key synbiotic generations. The book discusses successes and failures of viable probiotic ingestion, new trends and strains including genetically engineered probiotics, assessment of nonviable probiotics (postbiotics) and microflora benefits of prebiotic and synbiotic ingestion over probiotics.
  • Nanotechnological Innovations for Dairy Products

    Applications from Farm to Fork
    • 1st Edition
    • Ravi Pandiselvam + 2 more
    • English
    Nanotechnological Innovations for Dairy Products: Application from Farm to Fork offers an overview of the prominent, cutting-edge nanotechnology applications throughout the entire dairy supply chain, from farm-level production to consumer consumption. It will explore how nanotechnology can improve milk quality, extend shelf life, enhance nutritional value, and enable controlled release of bioactive compounds. It will also highlight the importance of ethical considerations, consumer acceptance, and transparency in the adoption of nanotechnology in the dairy industry. Written and edited by a team of international experts, Nanotechnological Innovations for Dairy Products: Application from Farm to Fork will guide researchers and industry stakeholders in implementing nanotechnology solutions in their practices and inspire future research and discoveries.
  • The Triumph of Biology's Model Organisms

    How Flies, Mice, and Slime Molds Became Teachers of Biology
    • 1st Edition
    • Josph Travis
    • English
    The Triumph of Biology's Model Organisms: How Flies, Mice, and Slime Molds Became Teachers of Biology provides an exploration on how seemingly ordinary organisms—flies, mice, slime molds, and more—have become central to scientific discovery. The book addresses the need to connect the stories of these organisms to broad advances in fundamental and biomedical science, providing readers with an appreciation for how curiosity-driven research translates into practical outcomes. Spanning a diverse array of species, it examines what makes an organism a model, the evolutionary principles underlying their utility, and the blend of wisdom and luck that led to their selection.Through compelling case studies and featured scientist reflections, chapters invite readers to critically examine how model organisms are chosen and why they matter. Readers will discover the pivotal roles of classic models like Drosophila and Neurospora, the transformation of pests into research heroes, and how extreme biological features have been harnessed to solve enduring questions. This book equips advanced undergraduates, graduate students, and researchers with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific and historical significance of model organisms.
  • Spider Systematics and Taxonomy

    • 1st Edition
    • Dimitar Dimitrov + 1 more
    • English
    In the last decade or so, a large number of new spider species have been discovered and described, and many genera and families have been revised. Yet, a single comprehensive resource has been lacking to update spider taxonomy. Spider Systematics and Taxonomy aims to present these major developments in the field, as well as to show how technological advancements have driven these changes. Spider groups covered in most detail are those which have recently seen the most significant discoveries and changes. Later chapters highlight the impact of recent technological developments on our knowledge of spider taxonomy, with topics including phylogenomics, artificial intelligence, and novel imaging technologies. Finally, an outlook on future priorities for spider taxonomy research as well as expected developments will be explored.Spider Systematics and Taxonomy is a valuable reference with illustrations and vivid photographs included throughout to showcase spider diversity and relationships. This will serve as a key resource for arachnology researchers, graduate and postgraduate students wishing to come up to date on the latest advances in the field. Researchers in adjacent fields and those working in taxonomy generally will also benefit from this work.
  • Harvesting the Sea

    Unveiling Marine Bioresources for Functional Foods and Human Health Enhancement
    • 1st Edition
    • Thilina Jayawardena + 2 more
    • English
    Harvesting the Sea: Unveiling Marine Bioresources for Functional Foods and Human Health Enhancement explores the remarkable potential hidden within the depths of our oceans. Encompassing over two-thirds of the Earth's surface, the marine ecosystem possesses an astonishing array of biodiversity and contains a trove of bioactive compounds that can revolutionize human health and wellbeing. In a world where functional foods are gaining prominence for their ability to provide targeted health benefits, this book delves into the untapped potential of marine bioresources and reveals the captivating journey of their discovery, sustainable utilization, and prospects. Written by a global team of experts, this book underscores the pressing need for innovative solutions in nutrition and healthcare. Modern lifestyles, stress, and the rise of chronic diseases demand a shift toward functional foods that promote well-being and disease prevention. Organized by marine bioresources, nutritional and bioactive compounds, functional food types, and therapeutic properties, chapters highlight the potential of marine-derived bioactive compounds and offer insights into their integration into functional foods. Through a meticulously researched exploration, readers are invited to understand how these compounds can contribute to a more vibrant and fulfilling life. With its interdisciplinary approach, Harvesting the Sea: Unveiling Marine Bioresources for Functional Foods and Human Health Enhancement is a valuable resource for nutritionists, food scientists, biotechnologists, researchers, and anyone intrigued by the profound relationship between our oceans and human health. As a bridge between conventional foods and dietary supplements, this book illuminates the path toward a healthier, more functional future through the wonders of marine bioresources.
  • Cadmium Contamination in Soils and Plants

    Mechanisms and Mitigation
    • 1st Edition
    • Fang-Jie Zhao + 2 more
    • English
    Cadmium Contamination in Soils and Plants presents a rigorous, up-to-date account of how this toxic metal enters agricultural landscapes, persists in soils, interacts with living systems, and ultimately affects food safety and human health. The volume synthesizes cutting-edge findings on the processes that drive Cd movement from soil to crops and clarifies the biological pathways by which plants and microorganisms respond. It translates scientific insight into practical solutions for safer agricultural production systems, drawing on recent advances in measurement, modeling, and remediation.This book is intended for researchers, graduate students, and professionals across environmental science, agronomy, and public health who need an authoritative, research-grounded reference to inform decisions in cultivation-related settings.
  • Medicinal Plant Biotechnology for Ameliorated Secondary Metabolite Production

    • 1st Edition
    • Saikat Gantait + 3 more
    • English
    Medicinal Plant Biotechnology for Ameliorated Secondary Metabolite Production delivers a cutting-edge perspective on how biotechnology is reshaping the way medicinal plants are studied and utilized. By integrating advanced molecular techniques, precision genetic tools, bioprocessing strategies, and analytical platforms, this volume addresses the critical challenge of enhancing the biosynthesis and optimization of high-value bioactive compounds.The book moves beyond technical innovation to emphasize its role in meeting global demand for plant-derived therapeutics while ensuring ecological balance. It highlights how advancements can drive sustainability, reduce reliance on synthetic alternatives, and open new pathways to ensure the long-term viability of plant genetic material and biodiversity preservation. This future-oriented approach makes the volume not just a specialized reference, but a strategic guide for shaping the next generation of plant-based functional solutions.Part of the Medicinal and Industrial Plants and Products series, this state-of-the-art resource boasts a holistic approach with relevance across stakeholders in academic and industrial contexts seeking practical insights that can be adapted to diverse plant species and scaled for real-world industrial and commercial uses.
  • Marine Mercury Bioaccumulation

    • 1st Edition
    • Luiz Drude de Lacerda
    • English
    Marine Mercury Bioaccumulation presents state-of-the-art research on mercury bioaccumulation in marine life. Written by leading experts in marine toxicology, this book delivers the latest information on monitoring and modeling mercury biomagnification in key marine taxa. Early chapters introduce the basic biology and ecology of how mercury travels through marine organisms and accumulates within marine food webs. Central chapters discuss the current status and exposure risks of key taxa, including marine vegetation, invertebrates, fishes, mammals, and birds. The book concludes with an assessment of human exposure to mercury through seafood products and novel modeling tools to assess environmental exposure risks and bioaccumulation.User... will find this to be a great resource for a global assessment of mercury contamination in the ocean, including biological resources, monitoring and modeling, current tools, existing research gaps, and suggestions on how to improve our monitoring and policy tools for improved safety of marine life and human consumption. This is an indispensable tool for researchers, resource managers, fisheries stakeholders, and students alike.