Agroecosystems: An Ecological Perspective

The basic unit of study in agroecology is known as an agroecosystem. It is defined as a functionally and spatially coherent unit of agricultural activity. It comprises of both the living as well as the nonliving components which are involved in that unit, along with their interactions. An agroecosystem can be considered as a subset of a conventional ecosystem, with the human activity of agriculture at its core. The region around the agricultural activity, which is impacted by this activity, is also included in the agroecosystem. The farming methods which are employed currently have resulted in over-stretched water resources, high levels of erosion and reduced soil fertility. Farming within agroecosystems has been suggested as the way forward for mainstream agriculture. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of agroecosystems by examining it through the perspective of ecology. It also includes contributions of experts and scientists which will provide innovative insights into this field. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book