This book presents a comprehensive scientific overview of the components and processes that underpin the biological characteristics of soil fertility. It demonstrates the interdependence of soil biological fertility with physical and chemical characteristics of soil. The book highlights the enormous diversity of life in soil and the resulting effects that management of land can have on the contribution of this diverse community to soil fertility in an agricultural context. It is becoming more relevant to explore soil biological processes in terms of their contribution to soil fertility....

This book is the most up-to-date and comprehensive review of our knowledge of the management of mycorrhizas in agriculture, horticulture and forestry. It contains twenty-four reviews written by leading international scientists from eight countries. The reviews consider the ecology, biology and taxonomy of arbuscular and ectomycorrhizal fungi, the information and functioning of mycorrhizas and opportunities for managing these symbioses. The book will be essential reading for scientists and advisors responsible for ensuring that the maximum benefit is obtained from mycorrhizal symbioses in...