[Book Review: The Biology of Seeds: Recent Research Advances. Based on a workshop held in Salamanca, Spain, May 2002. ]

Abstract

What is dormancy? What is germination? How are they controlled? There is still much to be learned about these fundamental characteristics of seeds— a group that accounts for more than three-quarters of the caloric and protein needs of humankind (either directly or as animal fodder). Two-thirds of the papers presented at a workshop held in 2002 are included in this well-edited volume. It is packed with new data (39 of 48 chapters) that are presented in concise articles worthy of a peer-reviewed publication. The remaining articles are short overviews proffered by invited speakers that provide valuable background and synthesis. This format makes the book a superb place to start for anyone considering involvement in seed research, as well as a critical delineation of the cutting edge for those already involved in the field.