Introduction to Agri-ecosystem Engineering for Plant Health Management

Agri-ecosystem engineering (AEE) for plant health management (PHM) is both science and art. AEE strategy is a science because it uses scientific knowledge to develop its tactics and spatial deployment of its tactics in an agro-ecosystem is an art. It is predicted that AEE strategy with tremendous potential in PHM is likely to replace the concept of integrated pest management (IPM) and other crop management concepts in modern agriculture in the years to come. Owing to its holistic and ecofriendly nature, AEE strategy with its soil and aerial approaches is winning accolades of researchers and farmers/growers around the globe. This book introduces the concept of AEE for crops and presents the basics as well as other fundamental aspects of AEE for readers from scientific and non-scientific background. It presents a detailed account on important and selected tactics for above- (aerial) and belowground (soil) approaches in AEE strategy and their implementation. It also touches upon various other ecofriendly tactics in AEE strategy and their deployment designs that influence both aerial and soil habitats of crop for plant health promotion. This book has enough pertinent information to kindle interest in readers i.e. scientists/researchers, professionals, and farmers/growers, in subject and provides required impetus to explore it as their area of research interest/work. Furthermore, with proper promotion and implementation, it has the potential to become a subject of teaching and research for undergraduate and post-graduate students in agricultural sciences.

Book Contents:

1 Introduction

2 Belowground Biodiversity: Role in Improving Soil Health and Fertility and in Promoting Plant Health

3 Aboveground Biodiversity: Role in Plant Health Promotion

4 Attractant Trap and Repellent Plants in Push-Pull Systems: Role in Pest Regulation

5 Insectary/Floral Plants: Role in Enhancing Biological Control of Pests

6 Semiochemicals: Role in Agri-ecosystem Beneficial Interactions

7 Agri-ecosystem Engineering Tactics for Agricultural (Cereals and Other Field) Crops

8 Agri-ecosystem Engineering Tactics for Horticultural (Fruits and Vegetables) Crops

9 Agri-ecosystem Engineering: A Generalized Procedure