Plant disease is one of the greatest causes of economic losses of crops throughout the world. Every year, billions of dollars are spent on chemical control measures, but there is an increasing awareness that alternatives to these chemical control measures may be becoming more viable. This work explores the international impact of plant disease on man and how this is measured and diagnosed, discusses epidemiology and the genetics of host-parasite relations and looks at the range of defensive tactics currently available and those under development, in particular those which are more environmentally acceptable than many in widespread use now.

Introduction to Plant Pathology provides an integrated coverage of the biology of plant disease, highlighting the organisms that cause such diseases and the techniques used for their identification and control. It is a comprehensive, up-to-date introduction to the subject, including the latest relevant molecular and genetic developments.

Broadly divided into two parts, the text opens by placing plant disease in context, showing how disease may cause a catastrophic loss of crops. Pathogens are then discussed alongside epidemiology and the measurement of disease severity and its relation to yield and inoculum control. The second part examines host-pathogen interactions and symptoms caused by altered plant growth regulator metabolism. Finally, the book looks at how the health of crops may be improved through the continuing development of control measures that are environmentally responsible.

• An accessible introduction, including coverage of the molecular biology of plant disease.
• Includes many examples and applications throughout, along with full colour photographs.
• A diverse selection of case studies provided along with a detailed glossary