Plant Taxonomy

Tod F. Stuessy has been an international leader in plant systematics for several decades. For this second edition, he adds a new chapter on molecular biology that provides a broad perspective on the contributions of molecular data and the dramatic changes in plant systematics as a result of the 'molecular revolution.' -- Daniel J. Crawford, University of Kansas An essential book for plant taxonomy and a masterful synthesis that few in our field would have the ability to produce. Plant Taxonomy embraces the holistic, synthetic viewpoint that students must adopt if our science is to progress. Tod F. Stuessy's prose is a model of structure, precision, and clarity, and he illustrates points with cogent analogies and pertinent anecdotes. I look forward to putting a copy on my bookshelf. -- Thomas G. Lammers, University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh

The field of plant taxonomy has transformed rapidly over the past fifteen years, especially with regard to improvements in cladistic analysis and the use of new molecular data. The second edition of this popular resource reflects these far-reaching and dramatic developments with more than 3,000 new references and many new figures. Synthesizing current research and trends, Plant Taxonomy now provides the most up-to-date overview in relation to monographic, biodiversity, and evolutionary studies, and continues to be an essential resource for students and scholars. This text is divided into two parts: Part 1 explains the principles of taxonomy, including the importance of systematics, characters, concepts of categories, and different approaches to biological classification. Part 2 outlines the different types of data used in plant taxonomic studies with suggestions on their efficacy and modes of presentation and evaluation. This section also lists the equipment and financial resources required for gathering each type of data. References throughout the book illuminate the historical development of taxonomic terminology and philosophy while citations offer further study. Plant Taxonomy is also a personal story of what it means to be a practicing taxonomist and to view these activities within a meaningful conceptual framework. Tod F. Stuessy recalls the progression of his own work and shares his belief that the most creative taxonomy is done by those who have a strong conceptual grasp of their own research.