Developmental Genetics and Plant Evolution

Description

A benchmark text, Developmental Genetics and Plant Evolution integrates the recent revolution in the molecular-developmental genetics of plants with mainstream evolutionary thought. It reflects the increasing cooperation between strongly genomics-influenced researchers, with their strong grasp of technology, and evolutionary morphogenetists and systematists who are more deeply rooted in comparative biology and patterns of plant evolution. The book discusses our increasing understanding of gene function and expression, along with modern phylogenies. It integrates morphological and molecular data to highlight specific key transitions in plant evolution that warrant additional intensive study. Furthermore, it explores increasing knowledge of the physical expression of plant development from disciplines such as anatomy and paleobotany. Rather than focus on the technical aspects of plant genomics, this book provides genuinely integrated explanations of plant evolution. The distinguished panel of contributors has succeeded in capturing a demanding subject in an accessible volume for a wide range of professional botanists and students in developmental biology, applied molecular biology, molecular evolution, morphogenesis, organismal botany, and theoretical systematics.

'Collectively, the chapters in this symposium volume from the Systematics Association present a vibrant view of this growing field. Developmental Genetics and Plant Evolution brings together a variety of approaches and systems where we are beginning to glean some of the answers.'Vivian F. Irish, Science, vol. 298, December 2002 'A book of this sort should help to keep the dialogue going between developmentalists and evolutionists. I think all players in this game can learn from the diverse and interesting perspective and approaches presented.' R. Geeta, American Journal of Botany, 2003