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Nanotechnology and Plant Disease Management explores the intersection of nanotechnology and agriculture. This book serves as a comprehensive exploration of the current state and future potential of nanoparticles in revolutionizing plant disease management within the realm of agriculture. This book elucidates the synthesis, characterization and judicious application of nanoparticles, providing a clear and accessible explanation of what nanomaterials are, how they are characterized, and their pivotal role in reshaping the plant disease management systems. It scrutinizes innovative strategies that influence the unique properties of nanoparticles to identify and monitor the presence of pathogens at early stages. The book also examines the limitations inherent in the use of nanomaterials for disease management in plants by critically evaluating both sides of the spectrum. This aims to provide a candid overview of the hurdles that must be overcome to unlock the full benefits of nanotechnology in this field. By pinpointing and understanding these obstacles, the current work aims to pave the way for effective strategies and solutions, ensuring the responsible and optimized application of nanomaterials for enhanced plant disease management. This in-depth examination serves as a cornerstone, providing readers with a profound understanding of the intricate processes involved in synthesis, characterization and utilizing nanomaterials for disease control. Nanotechnology and Plant Disease Management is a testament to the transformative potential of nanotechnology in agriculture. The authors invite readers to embark on this enlightening journey, exploring the intricate world of nanomaterials and their application in safeguarding the health and vitality of plants.

Rice is a widely consumed crop around the world that has tremendous importance and is cultivated almost everywhere except Antarctica. However, various biotic and abiotic stresses have a negative effect on rice cultivation, seriously reducing its yield. This volume examines the bacterial and fungal pathogens that cause rice diseases and explores how to manage these diseases. It covers the economic and environmental impact of rice fungal diseases on global food security and proceeds to delve into diagnostic methods for rice fungal pathogen detection and discusses current strategic and applied biotechnological methods for the effective management of rice fungal diseases.

This book focuses on the applications of plant growth promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) in the form of bioinoculants to enhance the crop productivity and resilience against pathogens. Chapters explain the latest findings on development of the bioinoculants utilizing the modern technologies and agri-wastes. It also provides the latest information on methods of improving quality and efficiency of bioformulations and utilization of advanced biotechnological tools for developing precision products. PGPMs play important roles in survival and health of the plant. These useful microorganisms provide plants with nutrients, protect them from pathogens and help in combating abiotic stresses. It is important that these mutualistic interactions between plant and soil microbes are well understood so as to develop reliable products in the form of biostimulants, biopesticides and manage biotic and abiotic stresses in crops. Apart from enhancing crop productivity, plant-microbe interactions can also perform activities such as reclamation of degraded lands, degradation of pollutants and remediation of saline or marginal lands. This book is of interest to teachers, researchers, plant scientists and microbiologists. Also, the book serves as an additional reading material for undergraduate and graduate students of agriculture, microbiology, ecology, soil science, and environmental sciences.

This book discusses the role of microbes in agriculture for plant attributes, soil fertility, and bio-remediation, which aid in sustainable agriculture. Nowadays, due to increase in human population, it is essential to increase food productivity in the near future, but exhaustive non-sustainable agricultural practices such as the usage of agrochemicals threaten food security, the economy, and the environment globally. Soil deterioration is the most serious environmental threat to food production, resulting in poverty and hunger in developing countries. As a result, the global community has faced challenges regarding the development of ecologically sound, efficient, and long-term alternative options to meet rising food requirements. Therefore, to contribute to food security, the advancement of sustainable and innovative modern agriculture aimed at addressing environmental, economic, and social challenges connected with present intense non-sustainable agriculture practices is required. As a result, beneficial microbial inoculants will be widely used in the development of new strategies to increase sustainable food production. Bioinoculant application helps to provide nutrients that directly support soil health and sustainable food production. Hence, this book offers the role of microbial inoculants for better agronomical performance for sustainable advancement in agriculture and also pays attention to soil health improvement for extensive period benefits. The book will be highly recommended for agriculture microbiologists, agronomists, plant pathologists, and related areas.

This edited volume provides a comprehensive view of the recent developments on Bacillus and their application in agriculture and allied sectors in a global scenario. Research articles sharing a consolidated state-of-the-art development in this area are solicited for this book. This book is a complete package covering all spheres of diversity and taxonomy, nutrient supplementation, biotic and abiotic stress management, biofilm and endophytic colonization, commercialization and regulatory mechanisms, etc. Descriptions of cutting-edge techniques and novel approaches on Bacillus research is also covered. A part of the book concentrates on the biotic and abiotic stress management in several important crops. It contains 11 contributory chapters from eminent experts in the field of life sciences specially microbiology, plant pathology and biotechnology working on different aspects of Bacilli and their application in agriculture and allied sectors. This book is useful for Graduate, Post-graduate students, research scholars, and post doctorate scholars of plant science, plant microbiology, soil microbiology and plant pathology discipline researchers, academicians, industrialists, policy makers.

This book provides comprehensive knowledge of the methods of detection and identification of phyllosphere microbial pathogens and the management of different kinds of diseases caused by them in various crops. Interactions between pathogens and host plants result in the induction of defense responses expressed via molecular signals, from initiation of infection to systemic progression of pathogen invasion in susceptible plants and contrasting signals in resistant plants, leading to inhibition of pathogen development through activation of preinfectional and postinfectional defense responses. These are critically discussed.The author describes the intricate and complex competitive activities of the pathogens and host plants in a molecular warfare that the host plant must win to break the link in the pathogens'life cycle, allowing the development of disease management strategies based on the principles of exclusion, eradication, and immunization. Integration of strategies concerning the development of cultivars resistant to pathogens through breeding and biotechnological techniques, application of biotic and abiotic inducers of resistance to pathogens, and use of disease-free seeds and propagules that are complementary to each other along with effective cultural practices are emphasized.This book presents information gathered through an extensive literature search to help researchers and graduate students in agricultural sciences identify research gaps and successfully complete their research projects.

This comprehensive book offers a fascinating exploration of the dynamic relationships that exist between plants and fungi, shedding light on the latest advancements in research and opening a window into the remarkable potential of these partnerships. From mycorrhizal networks that enhance plant nutrient uptake to endophytic fungi that fortify plant defences and produce bioactive secondary metabolites of medicinal importance, this book unravels the multifaceted role that fungi play in shaping the health and resilience of plant ecosystems. Whether you're a seasoned mycologist, a curious botanist, or simply intrigued by the wonders of nature's collaborations, this book provides a captivating journey through the diverse realms of plant-fungi interactions, offering a glimpse into the promising prospects that these partnerships hold for the future exploration and application in areas ranging from sustainable agriculture to drug discovery, ecological restoration and beyond.

This book provides an in-depth overview of marine greens and their environmental and biotechnological applications. It addresses concepts such as the niche adaptation strategies of marine greens in their natural habitats, as well as their global distribution, and factors affecting their distribution and proliferation.Marine greens are posited as an alternative to fossil fuels, mitigating global climate change and thereby fostering future environmental sustainability. In addition, the book explains the remediation of xenobiotics, wastewater, microplastics, marine debris and marine green contamination. Expert authors from around the world explore the industrial and agricultural applications of marine greens in the production of enzymes and marine bioenergy, and what is needed to improve its production potential.This is important reading for government and non-governmental organizations as well as industries and research institutions looking for ways to combat current industrial and environmental challenges.

This book addresses sustainable solutions to problems in various environments using microorganisms dwelling in the soil and sustainable approaches applicable now and in the future. It focuses on the role of the soil microbiome—a rich community of beneficial bacteria and fungi—in green technology for a safe environment. This volume delves into the dynamics between the soil ecosystem and microorganisms; their interrelationships; and man's role in maintaining soil health and quality. The chapters cover topics such as pollution control, enhancing soil fertility, climate change mitigation, biocontrol of pathogens, and nanotechnology applications. The authors provide an expert analysis of how these microbial communities contribute to green technological sustainability. Readers will find contributions by renowned scholars who explore these themes through empirical research and practical case studies. The book highlights how these microorganisms can be major players in nature-based solutions while shifting perceptions from harmful to beneficial roles. Soil Microbiome in Green Technology Sustainability is essential reading for researchers, scholars, practitioners, students at all levels, and anyone interested in environmental science or biotechnology. It offers valuable insights into using microbial capabilities for sustainable development across various industrial sectors. This volume is particularly relevant for those involved in renewable energy, recycling, carbon capturing, storage technologies, or any field seeking eco-friendly solutions to global challenges.

This comprehensive book explores both the fundamental and practical aspects of microbial genetics, shedding light on viroids, viruses, phytoplasma, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Unveiling a fresh perspective, the book tackles traditional taxonomical debates by embracing DNA-based taxonomy, offering a novel approach to understanding phylogeny within this microbe realm. Furthermore, it delves into the exciting realm of metagenomics, revolutionizing the identification and classification of unculturable microorganisms. Written by leading experts, this essential reading material caters to students and researchers in Microbiology, Genetics, and Biotechnology.

This edited book covers the major aspects of plant growth promoting bacteria and mechanisms underlining the phenotype in rhizobacteria. This book guides the researchers about the potential of plant growth promoting bacteria to be used as biofertilizers. The process of biofertilizer development and the process of testing its efficacy for commercial use and the potency is elaborated in this volume using suitable figures. The information in this book regarding the secretion of various secondary metabolites responsible for nutrient management is helpful for designing bioformulations that assist plant growth. This book provides substantial number of evidences that underlines the genomic basis of nutrient management by microbes. Essential information is provided regarding the genomic and proteomic background of the biofertilizers. The chapters in the book are divided into three sections. The first section of the book includes chapter 1-5 outlining the importance of rhizobacteriain elevating the nutrient levels in soil and augmenting the biotic and abiotic stress. Second section of the book includes chapter 6-11 elaborating the details about the biofertilizer, types of biofertilizer available and techniques involved in mass production of biofertilizers. Section third covers chapters from 12-15 providing the explicit information about metabolomics and proteomics basis of plant growth development. This collective work is distinct as it has focus on diverse emerging technologies which are high-throughput, scalable and applicable to different countries regardless of their socio-economic conditions. This book can improve the current state of knowledge and invoke researchers and innovators to take ahead the current inter-disciplinary knowledge into technologies that are readily available and effectively minimize hazards associated with chemical fertilizer.

Nanotechnology provides an innovative platform for drug delivery and antiviral actions. This book discusses the utilization of nano-based formulations for the control of viral agents. The antiviral potential of green synthesized silver, chitosan nanoparticles encapsulating curcumin, photoinduced antiviral carbon nanohorns, and the role of carbon-based materials like fullerenes and carbon nanotubes in the repression of viral antigens are explained. The book also covers nanomaterial-based solutions for SARS-CoV-2 and other viral infections.Features: Explains theory and practical applications of nanomaterials as antiviral agents Reviews upscaling of nanomaterials from laboratory to fabrication stage Illustrates nanocurcumin, silver nanoparticles, and carbon nanoparticles for biomedical applications Highlights role of nanotechnology in effectively combating viral infections and pandemics Includes case studies of specific pharma companies This book is aimed at researchers, graduate students in materials science, microbiology and virology, and pharmaceutical sciences.

Material-Microbes Interactions: Environmental Biotechnological Perspective brings great insights into microbes-material interactions, biofilm formation and emerging bioprocesses within the field of applied biotechnology. The book systematically summarizes the fundamental principles, the state-of-the-art in microbes-material interaction, and its application in bioprocess and environmental technology development. Understanding the fundamental processes of biofilm formation, the role of material to exchange the energy with microbes, biofilm matrix, and optimization of the biofilm formation process is useful to everyone involved with bioprocess development. This book will be of significant interest to environmental technology developers, researchers, university professors, policymakers, graduate and postgraduate students and other stakeholders. Interestingly, academic institutions, wastewater treatment plants and research centers have upscaled biofilm-based environmental technologies, such as moving bed bioreactors, microalgae, tricking bed reactors, biofilters, and bioelectrochemical process as promising environmental technologies. - Illustrates growing interest in biofilm-based technology development, either wastewater treatment using carrier materials or valorizing waste material into resources using biofilm-based bioprocess - Focuses explicitly on the microbes-material interactions in various biotechnologies - Covers a broad range of biofilm-based bioprocesses, including new and state-of-the-art options and trends within the field - Includes photo-sets on biofilm development and bioreactor systems

This book covers the morphological characteristics, ethnopharmacological properties, isolated and identified structurally diverse secondary metabolites, biological and pharmacological activities of medicinal plants. Ethnopharmacology is the systematic study of folklore/traditional medicines, which continue to provide innovative drugs and lead molecules for the pharmaceutical industry. In fact, plant secondary metabolites, used as a single molecule or as a mixture, are medicines that can be effective and safe even when synthetic drugs fail. Therefore, the description of these secondary metabolites as well as methods for the targeted expression and/or purification is of high interest.In addition to surveying the morphological features, ethnopharmacological properties, biological and pharmacological activities, and studies of clinical trials, this book offers a comprehensive treatment of 56 plant species. It also presents the cell culture conditions and various methods used for increasing the production of medicinally important secondary metabolites in plant cell cultures.This volume:· Provides the morphological features, habitat, and distribution of each species of 56 genera selected from the different regions of the world. · Presents ethnopharmacological applications of various species of the 56 genera included in this book. Different species of 56 genera are used for ethnomedicinal uses by the people of various countries of the world.· Describes structures of various secondary metabolites identified in 56 plant species together with their biological and pharmacological activities.· Discusses strategies of secondary metabolites production, such as organ culture, pH, elicitation, hairy root cultures, light, and mutagenesis.· Provides a complete overview of each species of 56 genera and complete information up to 2022.Ethnopharmacological Properties, Biological Activity and Phytochemical Attributes of Medicinal Plants is an important book for undergraduate and postgraduate students, pharmacologists, phytochemists, Ayurvedic practitioners, medical doctors, and biotechnologists interested in the ethnopharmacological properties, phytochemistry, and biological and pharmacological activities of plants.

Plant RNA Viruses: Molecular Pathogenesis and Management provides wide-ranging coverage on the recognition and signaling events between plants and RNA viruses. The book examines the molecular biology of signaling, host-virus interaction, RNA virus diversity, and how plants and cellular pathogens interact. Sections cover Virus Diversity and Diagnosis, Virus-Host Interactions and Virus Management. Specific chapters discuss classification and nomenclature of viruses, detail the molecular characteristics of viral genomes, highlight the viral manipulation of cellular key regulatory systems for successful virus infection, and discuss the movement of plant viruses into plant cells. Additional topics include RNA plant viruses and host interaction, detection and diversity of plant RNA viruses, and strategies for combating and management of plant viruses. With contributions from an international group of experts, the book is a comprehensive reference for those in research, academia, industry and anybody engaging in the study of plant viruses at the molecular level. - Provides an overview of virus genome and nomenclature - Covers plant virus biodiversity and ecology, diversity mechanisms and opportunities - Examines Plant Host-Virus Interaction - Discusses virus-vector interaction and transmission - Offers strategies for virus management, both traditional and modern

This volume discusses innovative advancements in soil and crop microbiome technology and methods to support agricultural sustainability and reduce soil degradation. As climate change impacts agricultural productivity and soil health in impacted regions throughout the world, potential alternatives to find balance between soil health and crop yield are increasingly needed. Therefore, this book provides a timely, global perspective with a collection of expert authors to address how microbiomes can be used to achieve agricultural sustainability in threatened and degraded areas, while also covering related matters including soil health, pest management, waste disposal, environmental contamination, biofertilizer production, composting, and microbial engineering. The book is meant to serve as a reference for agriculturalists, environmentalists, graduate and post-graduate students, researchers, and professors of sustainability and agricultural management.

This edited book volume aims to bringing out a comprehensive collection of latest information and developments on the management of biotic stresses by the use of rhizospheric microbes across the globe. The main focus of this book is to address the scientific and practical significance of rhizosphere microbes in biotic stress management. The microbial communities in the rhizosphere ecosystem play multitude of microbe-microbe, microbe-insect/pest and plant-microbe interactions and they have not yet been fully exploited to gain benefits in this field as well as to achieve sustainability in agriculture. Among the more recent strategies, stress tolerance/resistance induced by environment-friendly elicitors of microbial origin and/or rhizosphere microorganisms has emerged as a promising supplement in the approaches to crop protection. The proposed book entitled'Rhizosphere Microbes: Biotic Stress Management” is pertinent to rhizospheric microbe-mediated biotic stress management coveringall spheres of biotic stress tolerance viz., bio-resources, diversity, ecology, and functioning of microbial bio-control agents, host–parasite interaction, strategies to characterize microbial bioinoculants, interactions of rhizosphere microbes by developing a fundamental understanding of the microbial communities, exploration of the diverse roles of microbes and microbial communities and their role in biotic stress tolerance, microbe-mediated mitigation of biotic stresses, quorum sensing, microbial signalling and cross-talk in the rhizosphere, biofilm formation, cell-to-cell communication, role of microorganisms in ecosystems functioning under various biotic stress conditions, application of microbial bio-pesticides, molecular studies using microbial systems, etc. This book is of interest to teachers, researchers, crop protection scientists, capacity builders and policymakers. Also the book serves as additional reading material for under-graduate, post-graduate, and post-doctorate fellow of agriculture, forestry, ecology, life science, and environmental sciences. National and international agricultural scientists, policy makers will also find this to be a useful read.

The book covers the taxonomy, diversity, bioactivity, and nanotechnology involved in the study of the genus Phoma. It presents the most recent molecular taxonomic approach, secondary metabolites, different bioactivities, combating microbial threats, and its use in nanotechnology from a basic research to an applied perspective. Expert contributors provide the latest research and applications to present thorough coverage of this important genus in human and plant pathology and the disease management.

Advances in Trichoderma Biology for Agricultural Applications covers the beneficial properties of Trichoderma in enhancing global agricultural productivity. Trichoderma are biotechnologically significant fungi, being widely used both agriculturally and industrially. In many cases Trichoderma are also a potential drug source of clinical importance. In recent years, driven by advances in genetics and genomics, research on these fungi has opened new avenues for its various applications. This book covers i) Current state of Trichoderma taxonomy, and species identification, ii) Trichoderma and plant-pathogenic fungi interactions, iii) Trichoderma interactions with plants, including rhizosphere competence of Trichoderma, antagonistic potentials, plant growth promotion, and management of various abiotic stresses in plants, iv) Practical aspects of Trichoderma commercialization in agriculture, v) Biosynthesis of metal-based nanoparticles and its application, and vi) Negative impact of Trichoderma strains in the environments.Reading this book should kindle further discussions among researchers working in fungal biotechnology, microbiology, agriculture, environmental science, forestry, and other allied subjects and thus lead to a broader scope of Trichoderma-based products and technologies. The knowledge shared in this book should also provide a warning on the potential risks associated with Trichoderma.

This book discusses the cross-talk between plants and microbes in the rhizosphere. The rhizosphere is the hotspot of microbial activities that influence plant growth and crop yield. The rhizosphere-residing microbes include the nitrogen-fixing rhizobia, mycorrhizal fungi, antibiotic-producing bacteria, antagonistic, plant-beneficial fungi, and entomopathogens. The three-way cross-talk among the plants, the pathogens and other microbes involves signaling molecules, metabolites, and physical interactions. The book also describes deleterious and beneficial aspects of this communication between plants and microbes. Plants program the local microbiome near their roots, and the microbial community has a profound influence on the functioning of the plant. This complex communication makes the collection of chapters a timely one, because the diverse subjects are linked by their focus on the molecular language of plant-microbe cross-talk.This timely and informative book is useful for students and researchers in the fields of microbiology, soil biology, and plant pathology.

This need-based unique book deals exclusively with water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) meat to provide much needed information to thousands of buffalo meat processors across the world. The information provided in this first-of-its-kind book on buffalo meat quality, nutritional characteristics, safety, and processing can be utilized by buffalo meat producers and meat processors for the advancement of the buffalo meat sector. It also provides valuable information to faculty members, students, researchers, and all other readers interested in this new source of meat. Owing to the limited research and scientific literature available on buffalo meat, the authors'own research findings and our experiences were included wherever required to give crisp, practical, and complete information. The information proposed in this book should be beneficial to the entire buffalo industry, from the farming and processing of buffaloes to the marketing of products. This serve as a handy guide to meat scientists, faculty members, and students willing to learn more about buffalo meat processing. Up-to-date relevant references were also included for the benefit of researchers and students to enable them to easily access further information. Above all, it provides valuable information to consumers who are interested to know this new and potential source of meat.

This book discusses genetic engineering of both plants and microbes for making agricultural practices more productive and sustainable. It chapters explore the understanding of the interaction between plants and microbes, and genomic information to modify the metabolism of plants or microbes to further enhance the beneficial interaction. The book covers the development of commercial inoculants including selection of appropriate plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria/ phosphate solubilize bacteria based on target host plant, soil type, indigenous microbial communities, environmental conditions, inoculant density, suitability of carriers and compatibility with integrated crop management. This is a relevant content for scientists and researchers working on soil biology, sustainable agricultural and plant physiology. Also, this book is a useful read for graduate and post graduate students of agriculture, botany and microbiology.

Encyclopedia of Infection and Immunity, Four Volume Set provides new insights into the interactions between bacteria, fungi, parasites and their hosts. Specific areas of interest include host cellular and immune response to microbes, molecular mechanisms of action of beneficial microbes or host-associated microbial communities, microbial pathogenesis, virulence factors, experimental models of infection, host resistance or susceptibility, and the generation of innate and adaptive immune responses. Comprised of over 200 chapters written and edited by leading experts in the field, this book will serve as a key resource for students, researchers, academics and industry practitioners in the fields of microbiology, immunology, and infectious diseases. More than 100 years after Robert Koch and Louis Pasteur established the microbial etiology of communicable diseases, the field of microbiology is experiencing a second period of rapid growth and expansion, driven by the realization that changes in host-associated microbial communities might be at the root of a broad spectrum of noncommunicable human diseases. These advances follow on the heels of recent progress in high-throughput sequencing technology, which has provided a wealth of information on the human microbiome and its physiological potential. - 2023 PROSE Awards - Winner: Finalist: Reference Works – Biological and Life Sciences: Association of American Publishers - Offers a contemporary review of current infection and immunity research, and insights into the future direction of the field - Meticulously researched and cross-referenced to allow students, researchers and professionals to find relevant information quickly and easily - Includes chapters written by academics and practitioners from various fields and regions, ensuring that the knowledge within is easily understood by, and applicable to, a large audience

Trends of Applied Microbiology for a Sustainable Economy discusses the role of modern tools and next-generation technologies in applied microbial research, including recent trends and innovation in global biofertilizers. Agriculture has seen dramatic changes since the time of its inception. Starting with the domestication of wild plants to small-scale traditional farming and then large-scale, chemical-intensive agriculture. It is at a crossroads once again, putting a huge amount of pressure on available natural resources like soil, water and biodiversity which is bound to increase with the ever-growing human population. This book helps readers understand the challenges associated with these demographic changes. - Redefines the relationship between microorganisms and agricultural sustainability in view of the latest technologies and advancements - Documents recent microbiological advancements in agricultural research and discusses challenges and opportunities in the biofertilizers market - Identifies challenges and opportunities for scaling up biofertilizers technology - Discusses recent trends and innovations in the biotechnology market and economy

Sustainable Utilization of Fungi in Agriculture and Industry covers current knowledge about of different fungal microorganisms, including economically important filamentous fungi and yeasts. 22 chapters summarize recent information about scientific investigations and the application of fungi in the production of industrial enzymes, organic acids (citric acid, lactic acid, etc.), biofuel (ethanol, H2 gas) and bioactive compounds for sustainable processes in agriculture, bioremediation, industries and therapeutics.Each chapter gives an updated and detailed account of knowledge on fungal microbes and their sustainable utilization in agriculture, white biotechnology, and other valuable industrial applications. Contributions are made by academic and professional experts in mycology and industrial biotechnology, presenting a broad perspective of the field in a simple, yet engaging style.Sustainable Utilization of Fungi in Agriculture and Industry is an informative reference for general readers, trainees, interested in sustainability measures in agriculture and industry. It also serves as reading materials for scholars, students and teachers involved in botany, microbiology, biotechnology and life sciences courses.

This edited volume provides comprehensive and latest information on the fungal biodiversity in its morphological characters, bioactive molecules, pathogenicity and virulence, and its impacts on crop production and sustainable management of agricultural productivity towards resolving global food security issues. The increasing number of infectious fungal diseases are regarded as threats to agricultural productivity and global food security. The efforts done by scientists to inventories the fungal diversity and identification of fungal species contributing as pathogens towards many plant and human diseases have been compiled in the present volume. The identification of the potential fungal pathogens is a prerequisite for an effective disease control management program. Also important is to understand the complex interactions between the host-pathogen and the environment. The book dwells on insights on the aforementioned aspects. The book also includes articles onecological significance of fungi and fungal antagonists used as biocontrol agents on other pathogens. This compilation is useful to scientists working in similar areas as well as to undergraduate and graduate students keen on getting updated information on the subject. Scientists involved in agricultural research, crop management, and industries that manufacture agrochemicals may also find it useful read.

This second volume of a two-volume work reviews beneficial bioactive compounds from various microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, cyanobacteria in plant diseases management and the postharvest management of fruits using microbial antagonists. Furthermore, it reviews the impact of climate change on food security and addressed the legal aspects of microbial biocontrol applications. The two-volume work “Microbial Biocontrol” introduces to mechanisms of plant-microbe interactions and explores latest strategies of how microbes can be applied in biocontrol and management of plant pathogens, replacing chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The book covers different groups of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, but also the interplay of entire microbiomes, and reviews their specific benefits in crop growth promotion, in enhancing the plants'tolerance against biotic and abiotic stress as well as in post-harvest management of various plant diseases. Novel tools such as CRISPR/Cas9 and microbe derived nanoparticles are also addressed besides the legal aspects of biocontrol applications. Today, rising global population and changing climatic conditions emerge as a major challenge for agronomist farmers and researchers in fulfilling the requirements of global food production. The conventional agricultural practices utilize undistributed use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides to enhance growth and yield of agricultural products and fresh foods, but their extensive and continuous use have led to a range of negative consequences on the food quality and safety, to environment as well as to human and animal health. Microbial biocontrol applications are presented as a solution, paving the way to a sustainable agriculture in compliance with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The book addresses researchers in academia and agriculture.

This book provides in-depth information about the ecology, diversity and applications of Actinomycetes. The book is divided into two major parts. The first part discusses the diversity, chemical biology and ecology of Actinomycetes. It also covers the discovery of natural products from soil, endophytic and marine-derived Actinomycetes. It includes natural product discovery, chemical biology, new methods for discovering secondary metabolites, structure elucidation and biosynthetic research of natural products. The chapters in this part focus on the effects of biological and chemical elicitation at molecular level on secondary metabolism in Actinomycetes. The second part of the book discusses genomic and synthetic biology approaches in Actinomycetes drug discovery. This part includes chapters focused on the application of metabolic engineering to optimize natural product synthesis and the use of omics data in engineering of regulatory genes. It covers the advanced tools of synthetic biology and metabolic engineering including cluster assembly, CRISPR/Cas9 technologies, and chassis strain development for natural product overproduction in Actinomycetes. It describes the use of bioinformatics tools for reprogramming of biosynthetic pathways through polyketide synthase and non-ribosomal peptide synthetase engineering. These advanced genomic and molecular tools are expected to accelerate the discovery and development of new natural products from Actinomycetes with medicinal and other industrial applications. The book is useful to researchers and students in the field of microbiology, pharmaceutical sciences and drug discovery.

This book series focuses on current progress in the broad field of medical microbiology, and covers both basic and applied topics related to the study of microbes, their interactions with human and animals, and emerging issues relevant for public health. Original research and review articles present and discuss multidisciplinary findings and developments on various aspects of microbiology, infectious diseases, and their diagnosis, treatment and prevention.The book series publishes review and original research contributions, short reports as well as guest edited thematic book volumes. All contributions will be published online first and collected in book volumes. There are no publication costs.Advances in Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Public Health is a subseries of Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, which has been publishing significant contributions in the field for over 30 years and is indexed in Medline, Scopus,EMBASE, BIOSIS, Biological Abstracts, CSA, Biological Sciences and Living Resources (ASFA-1), and Biological Sciences. 2019 Impact Factor: 2.450. 5 Year Impact Factor: 2.324; Cite Score: 3.0;Eigenfactor Score: 0.03583; Article Influence Score: 0.603

The rapid increase in microbial resources along with the development of biotechnological methods has revolutionized the field of microbial biotechnology. Genome characterization methods and metagenomic approaches further illustrate the role of microorganisms in various fields of research. Recent Advancement in Microbial Biotechnology: Agricultural and Industrial Approach provides an overview on the recent application of the microorganisms in agricultural and industrial improvements. The purpose of this book is to integrate all these diverse areas of research in a common platform. Recent advancement in Microbial Biotechnology targets researchers from both academia and industry, professors and graduate students working in molecular biology, microbiology and biotechnology. - Gives insight in the exploration of microbial functional diversity in different systems - Highlights important microbes and their role in enhancing agricultural productivity - Provides understanding to the basics with advance information of microbial biotechnology - Explores the importance of microbial genomes studies in agricultural and industrial applications

This book highlights the latest discoveries about the nitrogen cycle in the soil. It introduces the concept of nitrogen fixation and covers important aspects of nitrogen in soil and ecology such as its distribution and occurrence, soil microflora and fauna and their role in N-fixation. The importance of plant growth-promoting microbes for a sustainable agriculture, e.g. arbuscular mycorrhizae in N-fixation, is discussed as well as perspectives of metagenomics, microbe-plant signal transduction in N-ecology and related aspects. This book enables the reader to bridge the main gaps in knowledge and carefully presents perspectives on the ecology of biotransformations of nitrogen in soil.

Pollution is one of the most serious issues facing mankind and other life forms on earth. Environmental pollution leads to the degradation of ecosystems, loss of services, economic losses, and various other problems. The eco-friendliest approach to rejuvenating polluted ecosystems is with the help of microorganism-based bioremediation. Microorganisms are characterized by great biodiversity, genetic and metabolic machinery, and by their ability to survive, even in extremely polluted environments. As such, they are and will remain the most important tools for restoring polluted ecosystems / habitats. This three-volume book sheds light on the utilization of microorganisms and the latest technologies for cleaning up polluted sites. It also discusses the remediation or degradation of various important pollutants such as pesticides, wastewater, plastics, PAHs, oil spills etc. The book also explains the latest technologies used for the degradation of pollutants in several niche ecosystems. Given its scope, the book will be of interest to teachers, researchers, bioremediation scientists, capacity builders and policymakers. It also offers valuable additional reading material for undergraduate and graduate students of microbiology, ecology, soil science, and the environmental sciences.

Nanomaterials are becoming ubiquitous; microbes similarly are everywhere. This book focuses on various ways the diverse nanomaterials interact with microbial communities and implications of such interactions. Both toxicity and beneficial effects of nanomaterial-microbe interactions have been covered. This includes areas such as fate and bioavailability of nanomaterials in environments, microbial synthesis of nanomaterials and antimicrobial action of nanomaterials. Fairly comprehensive but with narrow focus, the book provides useful insights into these interactions which need to be factored in while designing nanoscience based new technologies.

Plants and the soil they grow in, are confronted with severe biotic and abiotic stresses viz. nutrient starvation, salt stress, drought, flooding, xenobiotic contamination, in order to sustain in an ecosystem. They also shape the microbial composition in their vicinity by modulating their secretions. This book discusses the pressing demand for novel and potential microorganisms to support an environment-friendly and cost-effective way of stress management in the plants. The book summarizes the processes and mechanisms involved in microbe-assisted plant and soil stress management. It discusses the challenges and opportunities in the application of microbial interactions in plant health. It describes in detail the nutrient dynamics of different soil systems. It includes important topics like agriculturally important genes and enzymes, rhizosphere modeling & engineering, genetically engineered bio-inoculants etc. It also talks about the application of next-generation technologies, omics and nano-based technologies. In the recent years, more than 50% of agricultural production relies on chemical fertilizers, leading to serious health issues and environmental concerns. This book provides natural solutions to these environmental concerns. This book is useful for researchers and students in the field of microbiology, agriculture, soil biology and plant sciences.

Microbes are ubiquitous in nature, and plant-microbe interactions are a key strategy for colonizing diverse habitats. The plant microbiome (epiphytic, endophytic and rhizospheric) plays an important role in plant growth and development and soil health. Further, rhizospheric soil is a valuable natural resource, hosting hotspots of microbes, and is vital in the maintenance of global nutrient balance and ecosystem function. The term endophytic microbes refers to those microorganisms that colonize the interior the plants. The phyllosphere is a common niche for synergism between microbes and plants and includes the leaf surface. The diverse group of microbes are key components of soil-plant systems, and where they are engaged in an extensive network of interactions in the rhizosphere/endophytic/phyllospheric they have emerged as an important and promising tool for sustainable agriculture. Plant microbiomes help to directly or indirectly promote plant growth using plant growth promoting attributes, and could potentially be used as biofertilizers/bioinoculants in place of chemical fertilizers. This book allows readers to gain an understanding of microbial diversity associated with plant systems and their role in plant growth, and soil health. Offering an overview of the state of the art in plant microbiomes and their potential biotechnological applications in agriculture and allied sectors, it is a valuable resource for scientists, researchers and students in the field of microbiology, biotechnology, agriculture, molecular biology, environmental biology and related subjects.

Microbes are ubiquitous in nature, and plant-microbe interactions are a key strategy for colonizing diverse habitats. The plant microbiome (epiphytic, endophytic and rhizospheric) plays an important role in plant growth and development and soil health. Further, rhizospheric soil is a valuable natural resource, hosting hotspots of microbes, and is vital in the maintenance of global nutrient balance and ecosystem function. The term endophytic microbes refers to those microorganisms that colonize the interior the plants. The phyllosphere is a common niche for synergism between microbes and plants and includes the leaf surface. The diverse group of microbes are key components of soil-plant systems, and where they are engaged in an extensive network of interactions in the rhizosphere/endophytic/phyllospheric they have emerged as an important and promising tool for sustainable agriculture. Plant microbiomes help to directly or indirectly promote plant growth using plant growth promotingattributes, and could potentially be used as biofertilizers/bioinoculants in place of chemical fertilizers. This book allows readers to gain an understanding of microbial diversity associated with plant systems and their role in plant growth, and soil health. Offering an overview of the state of the art in plant microbiomes and their potential biotechnological applications in agriculture and allied sectors, it is a valuable resource for scientists, researchers and students in the field of microbiology, biotechnology, agriculture, molecular biology, environmental biology and related subjects.

Microorganisms are a major part of the Earth's biological diversity. Although a lot of research has been done on microbial diversity, most of it is fragmented. This book creates the need for a unified text to be published, full of information about microbial diversity from highly reputed and impactful sources. Recent Advancements in Microbial Diversity brings a comprehensive understanding of the recent advances in microbial diversity research focused on different bodily systems, such as the gut. Recent Advancements in Microbial Diversity also discusses how the application of advanced sequencing technologies is used to reveal previously unseen microbial diversity and show off its function. - Gives insight into microbial diversity in different bodily systems - Explains novel approaches to studying microbial diversity - Highlights the use of omics to analyze the microbial community and its functional attributes - Discusses the techniques used to examine microbial diversity, including their applications and respective strengths and weaknesses

To satisfy the food demands of the global population, advanced technology based research is needed, that can extract the information from the plant metabolism and microbial gene pool and use it for improving plant health and productivity. Modern biotechnological tools have the ability to unlock the limitations of agricultural practices. However, the application of these tools is not well equipped. Moreover, eco-friendly agriculture by microbial inoculants is known to have positive influences on soil/plant health. Therefore it is relevant to explore the plant associated microbial niches, especially endophytes, epiphytes, and soil microbes and understand how they are benefitting each other. It can open new insights to develop sustainable agriculture practices by using consortia of microbes as plant helpers that recover the imbalanced agriculture systems and manage pathogenic diseases. This book presents the updates about the plant associated microbiomesand their contemporary uses. It covers the knowledge gap between soil and plant helper microbiomes and their application in the agriculture and allied sectors. Modern insights of phytobiomes are explored in various chapters on a variety of interrelated aspects of the fascinating areas like plant microbial interaction, integrated pest management, soil fertility intensification, sustainable crop production, and disease management. Sections in the book describe how to plant beneficial microbiomes have been utilized for sustainable green farming, with the aim to resolve the global food problem without harming the soil and environment health. This book is intended for everyone who is involved in agriculture, microbial biotechnology, bioinformatics, and all disciplines related to microbial biotechnology. These include academic students, scientists, and researchers at universities, institutes, industries, and government organizations who want to understand microbial linkages in a shorter time. It contains basic information that will be help to the non-specialist readers to understand progressive research.

Biological control has become an attractive alternative strategy for the control of plant diseases to reduce the excessive use of agrochemicals and its health hazards. But a significant gap still exists between basic research involving the discovery of a biocontrol agent and its development and implementation under commercial conditions. Because BCAs (unlike chemical a.m.) need to establish, colonize, survive and perform their metabolic activity to control diseases. In order to move a biocontrol agent from the laboratory to the market place requires many different disciplines and people with a variety of expertise. Research can stimulate the development of commercial biocontrol agents.Chapter 16 is available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.

This book is the second volume in the series Livestock Diseases and Management, and reviews the importance and implications of animal origin viral zoonoses. It also highlights the specific etiology and epidemiology of these viral infections and discusses their various biological and mechanical transmission mechanisms. Further, the book reviews various measures for controlling viral zoonoses and examines novel therapeutic and prophylactic strategies.Discussing recent studies on the pathogenesis and host immune response to these infections, it underscores the importance of using vaccines against these viral diseases to reduce the risk of them being transmitted to humans.Lastly, it describes in detail the challenges posed by these viral infections and our readiness to face them.

Recent Developments in Applied Microbiology and Biochemistry, Vol. 2, provides a comprehensive treatment and understanding on application oriented microbial concepts, giving readers insights into recent developments in microbial biotechnology and medical, agricultural and environmental microbiology. - Discusses microbial proteome analyses and their importance in medical microbiology - Explores emerging trends in the prevention of current global health problems, such as cancer, obesity and immunity - Shows recent approaches in the production of novel enzymes from environmental samples by enrichment culture and metagenomics approaches - Guides readers through the status and recent developments in analytical methods for the detection of foodborne microorganisms

This book compiles the latest research in the area of Trichoderma Rhizosphere Biology. It covers topics such as microbial interaction, crosstalk between plants and microbes, interactions with abiotic and biotic factors, and advances in biocontrol agents, biofertilizers and biostimulants. The respective chapters describe innovative ways of adapting fungal communities to improve their survival in highly dynamic environments and agroecosystems. In closing, the book discusses the use of Trichoderma as a bio-growth enhancer and biostimulant for organic agriculture.

The book compiles the latest studies on microorganisms thriving in extreme conditions. Microbes have been found in extremely high and low temperatures, highly acidic to saline conditions, from deserts to the Dead sea, from hot-springs to underwater hydrothermal vents- the diversity is incredible. The various chapters highlight the microbial life and describe the mechanisms of tolerance to these harsh conditions, and show how an understanding of these phenomena can help us exploit the microbes in biotechnology. The theme of the book is highly significant since life in these environments can give vital clues about the origin and evolution of life on earth, as a lot of these conditions simulate the environment present billions of years ago. Additionally, the study of adaptation and survival of organisms in such environments can be important for finding life on other planets. This book shall be useful for students, researchers and course instructors interested in evolution, microbial adaptations and ecology in varied environments.

Applied Plant Virology: Advances, Detection, and Antiviral Strategies provides an overview on recent developments and applications in the field of plant virology. The book begins with an introduction to important advances in plant virology, but then covers topics including techniques for assay detection and the diagnosis of plant viruses, the purification, isolation and characterization of plant viruses, the architecture of plant viruses, the replication of plant viruses, the physiology of virus-infected hosts, vectors of plant viruses, and the nomenclature and classification of plants. The book also discusses defense strategies by utilizing antiviral agents and management strategies of virus and viroid diseases. With contributions from an international collection of experts, this book presents a practical resource for plant virologists, plant pathologists, horticulturalists, agronomists, biotechnologists, academics and researchers interested in up-to-date technologies and information that advance the field of plant virology. - Covers the detection, control and management of plant viruses - Discusses antiviral strategies, along with mechanisms of systemic induced resistance to enhance the defense of plants against viruses - Provides contributory chapters from expert plant virologists from different parts of the world

Microbial communities and their functions play a crucial role in the management of ecological, environmental and agricultural health on the Earth. Microorganisms are the key identified players for plant growth promotion, plant immunization, disease suppression, induced resistance and tolerance against stresses as the indicative parameters of improved crop productivity and sustainable soil health. Beneficial belowground microbial interactions with the rhizosphere help plants mitigate drought and salinity stresses and alleviate water stresses under the unfavorable environmental conditions in the native soils. Microorganisms that are inhabitants of such environmental conditions have potential solutions for them. There are potential microbial communities that can degrade xenobiotic compounds, pesticides and toxic industrial chemicals and help remediate even heavy metals, and thus they find enormous applications in environmental remediation. Microbes have developed intrinsic metabolic capabilities with specific metabolic networks while inhabiting under specific conditions for many generations and, so play a crucial role. The book Microbial Interventions in Agriculture and Environment is an effort to compile and present a great volume of authentic, high-quality, socially-viable, practical and implementable research and technological work on microbial implications. The whole content of the volume covers protocols, methodologies, applications, interactions, role and impact of research and development aspects on microbial interventions and technological outcomes in prospects of agricultural and environmental domain including crop production, plan-soil health management, food & nutrition, nutrient recycling, land reclamation, clean water systems and agro-waste management, biodegradation & bioremediation, biomass to bioenergy, sanitation and rural livelihood security. The covered topics and sub-topics of the microbial domain have high implications for the targeted and wide readership of researchers, students, faculty and scientists working on these areas along with the agri-activists, policymakers, environmentalists, advisors etc. in the Government, industries and non-government level for reference and knowledge generation.

Phytoplasma III is the last of three books in the series covering all the aspects of phytoplasma-associated diseases. Phytoplasmas are a major limiting factor in the quality and productivity of many ornamental, horticultural and economically important agriculture crops worldwide, and losses due to phytoplasma diseases have disastrous consequences for farming communities. As there is no effective cure for these diseases, management strategies focus-on exclusion, minimizing their spread by insect vectors and propagation materials, and developing host plant resistance. This book provides an update on genomics, effectors and pathogenicity factors toward a better understanding of phytoplasma-host metabolic interactions. It offers a comprehensive overview of biological, serological and molecular characterization of the phytoplasmas, including recently developed approaches in diagnostics, such as transcriptomics studies, which have paved the way for analyzing the gene expression pattern in phytoplasmas on infection and revealed the up-regulation of genes associated with hormonal response, transcription factors, and signaling genes. Although phytoplasmas remain the most poorly characterized pathogens, recent studies have identified virulence factors that induce typical disease symptoms and have characterized the unique reductive evolution of the genome. Reviewing the advances in cultivation in axenic media together with the perspectives for future research to reduce the global incidence of these pathogens and the associated agricultural losses, the book is a valuable resource for plant pathologists, researchers in agriculture and PhD students.

The book discusses the complex interactions between plants and their associated microbial communities. It also elucidates the ways in which these microbiomes are connected with the plant system, and how they affect plant health. The different chapters describe how microbiomes affect plants with regard to immunity, disease conditions, stress management and productivity. In addition, the book describes how an ‘additional plant genome'functions as a whole organ system of the host, and how it presents both challenges and opportunities for the plant system. Moreover, the book includes a dedicated section on using omics tools to understand these interactions, and on exploiting them to their full potential.

This book presents the latest research on the uses of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), introducing readers to these natural, biodegradable polyesters produced by microorganisms, their functions and applications. The individual chapters discuss the various potentials of these bioplastics, which offer an attractive alternative to non-biodegradable plastics. The book also describes the diverse medical and biomedical applications of PHAs, including their use as drug carriers, memory enhancers, and biocontrol agents, and examines their role in creating a more sustainable economy – which is the need of the hour.

This 11-volume set covers a wide range of topics, including: lebsiella pneumoniae; endophytic bacteria; infra-red spectroscopy; probiotics; oil heterogeneity; and organic pollutants.

Plant growth promoting microorganisms (PGPM) have gained acceptance and importance due to their dual benefits of promoting plant growth in addition to managing plant pests and diseases and are extensively used as microbial inoculants in improving agricultural productivity. Use of PGPM mixtures and their integration with other means, like host resistance and chemicals, has proven to be more useful in management of several disease problems. Successful greenhouse and field demonstrations have been done using PGPM for growth promotion and resistance induction in various crops, against a broad spectrum of pathogens. Practical use of PGPM-based products has advanced and many formulations are made available in commercial scale, and more are currently under development. Further, novel formulation technologies have been formulated. Microorganisms constitute the major players in the rhizosphere and their composition and biomass significantly alters the plants response to the environment. Composition and interaction of rhizomicroflora with its surroundings highly influences plant health and productivity. Such beneficial rhizo-ecosystems engineering and manipulation of the rhizosphere to exploit or enhance this innate genetic potential, which will most probably play a key role in the future development of sustainable agricultural processes, is also reviewed. In recent years, a substantial amount of work has been done in the area of PGPM and voluminous literature is available. This book presents a methodical, comprehensive and latest research survey in this area. An overview of the scale and impact of PGPM in plant growth promotion and management of crop diseases, focusing attention on details most relevant to the development and application of biological control strategies involving various microbial strains is discussed. Problems and prospects of commercialization, advantages and disadvantages of their use andtheir potential for integrated pest management are also outlined. Most of the available books either refer to the subject of plant growth promoting fungi or plant growth promoting bacteria, however, this comprehensive book includes research pertaining to all beneficial microorganisms that are plant growth promoting in nature. Moreover, this is a rapidly developing field of research and has global impact. Therefore, keeping in pace with the latest developments in this area is totally necessary, and this book will be a latest and up-to-date compilation of the research from different parts of the world.