This volume considers how farmers manage, maintain, and benefit from biodiversity in agricultural production systems. It reflects the most recent research and developments in the maintenance of local diversity at the genetic, species, and ecosystem levels. Chapters cover the assessment and farmer management practices for crop, livestock, aquatic, and associated diversity (such as pollinators and soil microorganisms) in agricultural ecosystems; examine the potential role of diversity in minimizing pest and disease pressures; ...
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This volume considers how farmers manage, maintain, and benefit from biodiversity in agricultural production systems. It reflects the most recent research and developments in the maintenance of local diversity at the genetic, species, and ecosystem levels. Chapters cover the assessment and farmer management practices for crop, livestock, aquatic, and associated diversity (such as pollinators and soil microorganisms) in agricultural ecosystems; examine the potential role of diversity in minimizing pest and disease pressures; and present studies that exemplify the potential nutritional, ecosystem service, and financial values of this diversity under changing economic and environmental conditions. Numerous case studies show how farmers have used alternative approaches to manage biodiversity and enhance the stability, resilience, and productivity of their farms. Pointing the way toward improved biodiversity on a global scale, this text is mandatory reading for conservationists, environmentalists, botanists, zoologists, geneticists, and anyone interested in the health of our ecosystem.
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