Loebenstein, G., Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, 50-250 Bet Dagan, Israel
Thottappilly, G., Biotechnology, Sahrdaya College of Engineering and Technology, Kodakara, P.O., 680 684 Thrissur, Kerala, India

Agricultural research seems to be the oldest form of organized research in the world. Agricultural research can be broadly defined as any research activity aimed at improving productivity and quality of crops by their genetic improvement, better plant protection, irrigation, storage methods, farm mechanization, efficient marketing, and a better management of resources. © 2007 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.