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Agroecology

The Ecology of Sustainable Food Systems, Second Edition

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Providing the theoretical and conceptual framework for this continually evolving field, Agroecology: The Ecology of Sustainable Food Systems, Second Edition explores environmental factors and complexities affecting agricultural crops and animals. Completely revised, updated, and reworked, the second edition contains new data, new readings, new issues and case studies, and new options. It includes two completely new chapters, one on the role of livestock animals in agroecosystems and one on the cultural and community aspects of sustainable food systems.

The author clearly delineates the importance of using an ecosystem framework for determining if a particular agricultural practice, input, or management decision contributes or detracts from sustainability. He explains how the framework provides the ecological basis for the functioning of the chosen management strategy over the long-term. He also examines system level interactions, stressing the need for understanding the emergent qualities of populations, communities, and ecosystems and their roles in sustainable agriculture. Using examples of farming systems in a broad array of ecological conditions, the book demonstrates how to use an ecosystem approach to design and manage agroecosystems for sustainability.

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION TO AGROECOLOGY

The Need for Sustainable Food Production Systems

The Agroecosystem Concept

PLANTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

The Plant

Light

Temperature

Humidity and Rainfall

Wind

Soil

Water in the Soil

Fire

Biotic Factors

The Environmental Complex

SYSTEM-LEVEL INTERACTIONS

The Population Ecology of Agroecosystems

Genetic Resources in Agroecosystems

Species Interactions in Crop Communities

Agroecosystem Diversity and Stability

Disturbance, Succession, and Agroecosystem Management

The Energetics of Agroecosystems

Animals in Agroecosystems

THE TRANSITION TO SUSTAINABILITY

Converting to Ecologically Based Management

Indicators of Sustainability

Landscape Diversity and Agroecosystem Management

Community, Culture, and Sustainability

From Sustainable Agroecosystems to Sustainable Food Systems

Glossary

Index

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