Soil Microbiology, Ecology and Biochemistry

by Eldor A. Paul (Editor)

The fourth edition of Soil Microbiology, Ecology and Biochemistry updates this widely used reference as the study and understanding of soil biota, their function, and the dynamics of soil organic matter has been revolutionized by molecular and instrumental techniques, and information technology. Knowledge of soil microbiology, ecology and biochemistry is central to our understanding of organisms and their processes and interactions with their environment. In a time of great global change and increased emphasis on biodiversity and food security, soil microbiology and ecology has become an increasingly important topic.

Revised by a group of world-renowned authors in many institutions and disciplines, this work relates the breakthroughs in knowledge in this important field to its history as well as future applications. The new edition provides readable, practical, impactful information for its many applied and fundamental disciplines. Professionals turn to this text as a reference for fundamental knowledge in their field or to inform management practices.

New section on "Methods in Studying Soil Organic Matter Formation and Nutrient Dynamics" to balance the two successful chapters on microbial and physiological methodology Includes expanded information on soil interactions with organisms involved in human and plant disease Improved readability and integration for an ever-widening audience in his field Integrated concepts related to soil biota, diversity, and function allow readers in multiple disciplines to understand the complex soil biota and their function

Genres: Science, Agriculture

580 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 15, 1996

About the author

E.A. Paul

Reviews

[Lawrence Ryan Jr · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very excellent book in covering as much on the subject that space allowed.

Many excellent reference sources and as led to others books to read. I definitely intend to read this again as there is much material that would not hurt to read again.

[Christopher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would have to give this a five for the monumental task it must have been to assemble a book that is current and up-to-date in a field that is going through major changes. To accomplish such a task with a great deal of detail, each chapter and thus subject, is written by professors all across the world who are experts in their fields. Thus each chapter is slightly different in style and what is emphasized.

This is NOT the best generalized text!

The science of microbiology and the ecology of microbes is relatively new, and the advances in cost efficiency of DNA technologies are replacing for the most part culturing of bacteria and fungi. Relating phylogeny to function is now one of the biggest focuses of the field. Even the two-or-three domain system of life is in question.

Again, very nuanced book and well sourced! But not for beginners.

[Kirsten Frank · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each chapter is at the level of a published monograph, so very detailed.

[Mills College Library]

579.1757 S6832 2015