BIOL3711 Plant and Algal Diversity

2017

4.5

2 x 1-hour lectures weekly
1 x 1-hour tutorial weekly
5 x 3-hour practicals per semester
1 x 4-hour field trip per semester

1 of BIOL1101, BIOD1102

BIOL8731 has been successfully completed

This topic provides an overview of plant and algal diversity. The evolution and diversification of major plant groups, their morphology and reproductive biology, including modes of pollination and seed dispersal will be considered. The diversity of interactions involving plants including plant-animal interactions such as plant-herbivore and plant-pollinator interactions will also be considered as will features of the Australian flora in particular, including some important plant groups and communities. Algal diversity will also be examined, including the structure, classification, ecology and human uses of the major groupls of algae.

This topic aims to provide students with:

1. An introduction to major plant and algal groups and their characteristics, ecology and human uses
2. A broad understanding of the nature and diversity of interactions involving plants with particular emphasis on plant-animal interactions
3. An overview of the Australian flora and an introduction to some important angiosperm plant families

At the completion of the topic, students are expected to be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of various plant groups and their key morphological features
2. Demonstrate a broad understanding of the nature and diversity of plant-animal interactions (including plant-herbivore interactions, ant-plant mutualisms, and plant-pollinator interactions)
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the nature and diversity of plant breeding systems and reproductive biology (including pollination, seed dispersal and gene flow)
4. Demonstrate knowledge of the morphology, ecology and affinities of the major groups of algae
5. Have developed an appreciation of the importance of plants and algae as biological resources
6. Have developed practical skills in identification of plants and algae and the use of taxonomic keys
7. Have developed skills in communication and presentation of information