Fundamentals of Plant Physiology, 2nd Edition

Lincoln Taiz, Author Ian Max Møller, Angus Murphy and Wendy Ann Peer
Oxford University Press, £114.00                                                        

This is a heavily-revised version of the original publication, largely due to the many astounding advances within the plant sciences that have occurred since initial publication. Drawing from the higher-level text Plant Physiology and Development, a more accessible text has been produced for the undergraduate.  In essence, the latest edition mirrors the ethos of the first edition as it reflects the needs of the student as well as the educator.

Each chapter has learning outcomes set to different aspects of the plant as an organism. The outcomes build on each other to coordinate different organisational levels, and this system of learning is aimed at making a better match to learning styles.

Fundamentals is a textbook, and a comprehensive one at that, as it includes organic chemistry and molecular biology supported by intricate diagrams, such as a figure where cell membrane and tonoplast transport proteins are described.

Overall, the book should provide the student with the perfect aid for learning. For the tutor, there is a wealth of material for setting assessments as well as examples of laboratory practical work which could be carried out (such as replicating mycorrhizae growth around seedling root formation).

Pat Sang C.Biol. MRSB

Reviewed by Pat Sang CBiol MRSB, managing director of Animal Biology and Care Education Ltd