Leaf Defence /

How plants defend themselves, as they cannot simply run away, is multifaceted. In Leaf Defence, Farmer (Univ. of Lausanne, Switzerland) builds a compelling co-evolutionary-based exploration of the many tools plants use for defense. The relatively brief book begins in a somewhat dry style but soon becomes more enthralling as Farmer rapidly moves from an explanation of herbivory, leaf patterns, and colors to stinging hairs and unpleasant ergastic contents. By the time the author gets to chemical compounds used for defense, introducing enough chemistry for those with a background to get a deeper understanding and not overwhelming those without, readers cannot help being amazed at the complexity of plants. The book covers the basics of insect physiology as needed. Later chapters address modern molecular signaling pathways controlling DNA expression centered on induction by the jasmonate compounds. Last, Farmer discusses larger-scale topics, including purposeful ant defense against herbivory and notions of space and time for plant growth as means to evade predation, and concludes with an excellent summary. Most topics are appropriately framed in an evolutionary context without being contrived. References to primary sources are provided at the end. An essential resource for graduate students and faculty and valuable for upper-division undergraduates. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Botany collections serving upper-division undergraduates and above. --T. Page Owen, Connecticut College