Author
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CUPPLES, ALISON |
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Submitted to: Journal of Environmental Quality
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 10/21/2004 Publication Date: 4/1/2005 Citation: Cupples, A. 2005. Principles and applications of soil microbiology. Second Edition. Journal. Environmental Quality. Vol. 34. 672 p. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Soil microbiology is an integral part of many agricultural and environmental disciplines. "Principles and Applications of Soil Microbiology" effectively summarizes a wide range of essential soil microbiology topics, and should satisfy a diverse audience of students and professionals interested in this discipline. The book contains both detailed information and the most recent research developments in each subject area which is accomplished by having multiple authors (twenty-eight) contribute from their specific areas of expertise. Notable improvements over the first edition include higher quality illustrations and a superior format. Along with an additional chapter on genetics and a rearrangement of chapters, a new section was created describing basic terminology and concepts necessary for understanding soil microbiology. This format provides a more logical flow of information allowing the reader to comprehend and assimilate the material more readily. The book is divided into four section as follows: "Fundamentals" (Chapters 1-4); "Organisms and Interactions" (Chapters 5-12); "Cycles in Soil" (Chapters 13-16); and "Environmental and Agricultural Perspectives" (Chapters 19-23). The book is enjoyable to read and provides an easily understandable review of soil microbiology, ranging from the fundamentals to topical issues. I recommend it to undergraduate and graduate students interested in this field and suggest that it is an ideal textbook for courses in the discipline of soil microbiology. |
