Food Crops for the Future

This book examines the current revolution in plant breeding which could make it possible to support the world's growing population. While presenting a general guide to genetic principles, the author reviews the available methods for improving plant species, from basic breeding practices that have served in the domestication of wild plants, to the latest techniques of tissue culture and genetic engineering. The book considers the central issues facing farmers and plant breeders today: how to improve the quality and yield of crops; how to increase resistance to drought and disease; and the possible introduction of less familiar, more versatile crops such as cassava and the cowpea. Improvement here does not simply mean increased yield; it is a matter of strategy as much as of biology. In different places and for different purposes it may mean working for a higher protein content and greater palatability or altering the life cycle of the crop to suit local physical and economic conditions.