ISE Stern's Introductory Plant Biology

by James Bidlack, Shelley Jansky, Kingsley R. Stern

This introductory text assumes little prior scientific knowledge on the part of the student. It includes sufficient information for some shorter introductory botany courses open to both majors and nonmajors, and is arranged so that certain sections can be omitted without disrupting the overall continuity of the course. Stern emphasizes current interests while presenting basic botanical principles. This latest edition incorporates measurable learning outcomes and updated readings. Students will be introduced to the new classification of plants and plant-related species, integration of biotechnology into several chapters and inclusion of new text boxes addressing the areas of ecology, evolution and molecular biology.

Genres: Biology, Science, Nonfiction

640 pages, Paperback

Published March 25, 2020

Reviews

[DR JAMES]

This is the most reasonably-priced botany textbook in the USA, and can also be purchased in most countries these days. We pretty much use it throughout the United States because it's one of the only (if not, the only) botany textbooks that is updated frequently and includes plenty of information about new taxonomy. It was originally written by Dr. Kingsley Stern, one of the world's most reputable botanists, and probably the reason why it is in its 15th Edition. The new authors (Drs. Bidlack and Jansky) were close friends with Kingsley Stern, and have done a marvelous job in keeping the book up-to-date and entertaining enough that students will actually read the book. The new information on medicinal plants (particularly marijuana), molecular biology, and ecology makes this textbook all the more enjoyable. I especially appreciate the appendices, that include details on gardening, medicinal plants, and more information on taxonomy than any textbook I know. The accompanying Lab Manual is the only Botany Lab Manual that outlines what needs to be done to prepare labs and includes tear-out sheets that can be easily graded and ensure students are learning. This is a botany textbook that will continue for many future decades and has become the standard in teaching botany worldwide.

[Jessi]

This is a great, informative text-book with full color pictures, graphs, and charts.