The growth, reproduction and geographical distribution of plants are profoundly influenced by their physiological ecology: the interaction with the surrounding physical, chemical, and biological environments. This renowned textbook is notable in emphasizing that the mechanisms underlying plant physiological ecology can be found at the levels of biochemistry, biophysics, molecular biology, and whole-plant physiology. At the same time, the integrative power of physiological ecology is well-suited to assess the costs, benefits, and consequences of modifying plants for human needs, and to evaluate the role of plants in ecosystems.
