
Plant Breeding: Theory and Practice
Author: Anjani Kumar, Navin Kumar & Neena Bharti
Plant Breeding: Theory and Practice is a comprehensive textbook that delves into the scientific principles and practical approaches involved in developing improved plant varieties. The book covers foundational topics such as heredity, genetic variation, selection methods, hybridization techniques, and modern biotechnological tools used in plant breeding. It also addresses the role of plant breeding in enhancing crop productivity, resistance to pests and diseases, and adaptability to diverse environmental conditions, making it an essential resource for understanding both classical and contemporary breeding methods.
The book is structured to balance theory with practical applications. Each concept is illustrated with real-world examples, experiments, and case studies that demonstrate how breeders manipulate plant genetics to achieve desired traits. In addition, the text explores quantitative genetics, breeding strategies for self- and cross-pollinated crops, and the integration of molecular techniques, which allows readers to appreciate how scientific theory translates into tangible outcomes in agriculture and horticulture.
The primary readers of this book are students, researchers, and professionals in agriculture, horticulture, and plant sciences. Undergraduate and graduate students studying plant breeding or genetics will find it particularly useful for coursework and exam preparation. Researchers and practitioners can use it as a reference for designing breeding programs and implementing modern biotechnological approaches.