Theoretical production ecology: reflections and prospects.

This book gives an impression of the field of Theoretical Production Ecology, its development and its position as an interdisciplinary subject. Revised versions of the papers presented at the symposium Theoretical Production Ecology: hindsight and perspectives, organized on the occasion of the retirement of Professor C.T. de Wit from Wageningen Agricultural University, are presented. Professor de Wit's valedictory address is included. The papers have been arranged according to the four scientific themes covered by the Department of Theoretical Production Ecology: soil and climate; plant growth and development; pests, diseases and weeds; agricultural production systems. During his scientific career of more than 40 years, Professor de Wit made substantial innovative contributions in each of these four areas. Together the papers give an overview of the major developments during de Wit's inspiring involvement in production ecology and indicate the directions in which it may proceed in the years to come.