About the Author

Denis Persley is a Principal Plant Pathologist with the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F). He has extensive research experience in the identification and control of virus diseases in plants. He is also an experienced extension specialist and coordinates information systems for integrated vegetable crop protection. Denis has coordinated and contributed to previous handbooks of fruit and vegetable diseases published by DPI&F, particularly as editor of Diseases of Vegetable Crops published by DPI&F in 1994. Tony Cooke is a Senior Experimental Officer with the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F). He has extensive experience in diseases of tropical and sub-tropical fruit. His work in research and extension is undertaken both in Australia and internationally. Tony's focus has been to reduce postharvest disease losses which can be extensive in markets. He has collaborated on previous handbooks of fruit and vegetable diseases published by DPI&F. Susan House is a specialist in information extension with the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, teaming with scientists to create electronic and print resources for agricultural industries. She has developed handbooks and web products for producers in forestry, horticulture and viticulture. Her pursuit of science writing and communication developed from 15 years' experience in research, teaching and publishing in biological sciences, including reproductive ecology of Australian rainforest and woodland trees.