Introduction to Principles of Plant Pathology

Book excerpt: The rapid advances in concepts of different aspects of plant pathology since 1984 have compelled the present revision and expansion of the book. To avoid repetition, the chapter on plant disease management is condensed. At the same time new information on epidemiology, host-parasite relationship and genetic and molecular aspects of host-parasite interaction have been incorporated. Contents: Introduction / History of Plant Pathology / Causes of Plant Diseases / Symptoms and Indentification of Plant Diseases / Pathogenesis / Survival of Plant Pathogens / Dispersal of Plant Pathogens / The Phenomenon of Infection / Epidemiology / Effect of Infection on the Host / Role of Toxins in Plant Pathogenesis / Defence Mechanisms in Plants / Genetic Variability in Plant Pathogens / Genetics and Molecular Basis of Host-Parasite Interaction / Effect of Environments on Pathogenesis / Assessment of Disease Incidence, Severity and Loss / Disease Management Principles / Disease Management The Practices