Experimental Techniques in Plant Disease Epidemiology [Paperback]

Most books on epidemiology have treated the subject from a statistical, mathematical or computer applicational point of view. However, experiments must be performed first to provide the data for models which in turn can then be proven by further experimentation. This mutual interplay of theory and empirics gives epidemiology its scientific thrust and charm. This book provides a choice of methods for varying applications and objectives, covering all important aspects for the designing of experiments. Furthermore, the reader is supplied with solutions to his experimental problems and many tricks of the trade . The newcomer to the field will also profit by this methodology guide.Most books on epidemiology have treated the subject from a statistical, mathematical or computer applicational point of view. However, experiments must be performed first to provide the data for models which in turn can then be proven by further experimentation. This mutual interplay of theory and empirics gives epidemiology its scientific thrust and charm. This book provides a choice of methods for varying applications and objectives, covering all important aspects for the designing of experiments. Furthermore, the reader is supplied with solutions to his experimental problems and many tricks of the trade . The newcomer to the field will also profit by this methodology guide.I General Techniques.- 1. Experiments and Procedures in Epidemiological Field Studies.- 1 Introduction.- 2 Planning and Conduct of Field Experiments.- 2.1 Formulation of the Hypothesis and Selection of Variables.- 2.2 Single-Plot Field Experimentation.- 2.3 Sampling in Single-Plot Experiments.- 2.4 Data Acquisition and Handling.- 2.5 Experimental Error.- 3 Combination of Field and Growth Chamber Experiments in Studying Epidemiological Problems.- 3.1 Examples for the Combination of Field and Growth Chamber Experiments.- 3.1.1 Manipulating the Pathogen.- 3.1.2 Manipulating the Host  The Use of Trap Plants.- 3.1.3 Manipulal3%