Plant Breeding and Genetic Engineering

Plant breeding is the art and science of changing the genetics of plants for the benefit of humankind. Plant breeding can be accomplished through many different techniques ranging from simply selecting plants with desirable characteristics for propagation, to more complex molecular techniques. Genetic engineering is not just an extension of conventional breeding. In fact, it differs profoundly. As a general rule, conventional breeding develops new plant varieties by the process of selection, and seeks to achieve expression of genetic material which is already present within a species. Plant Breeding and Genetics is dedicated to the genetic improvement of crop plants for the benefit of society through the development of novel breeding methodologies, the discovery and deployment of economically important genes as genetic stocks, germplasm, and varieties, and the training of a new generation of plant breeders. The present book is intended for the students and researchers of agricultural sciences and botany. The book is also useful for the postgraduate students of botany and plant science.