606-023 Agricultural Botany

Credit Points

Coordinator

Prerequisites

600-141 Biology of Cells and Organisms and 600-142 Genetics & the Evolution of Life

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

Topics studied include:

• Plant Anatomy: Structure of plant cells, tissues and organs (6 lectures, 15 hours practical).

• Plant Physiology: Photosynthesis, growth and development; plant-animal interactions; plant nutrition; secondary metabolism; flowering. (18 lectures, 21 hours practical).

• Plant Taxonomy: morphology and identification, taxonomy of angiosperms (24 hours practical).

Upon completion of the subject, students should gain:

• a knowledge of plant structure and physiological function in relation to the environment;

• practical skills in studying and identifying plants;

• skills in experimental design and methods.

Assessment

A 3-hour combined theory examination; practical book and slide preparation (Anatomy); log book and up to 3 practical reports (Physiology); practical test, practical book and plant collection (Taxonomy).

Prescribed Texts

• Salisbury F H and Ross C, Plant Physiology. 4th ed. 1991 Wadsworth.
• Duigan S L, The Families and Genera of Victorian Plants. School of Botany, University of Melbourne.
• Duigan S L, The Grasses, particularly those of Victoria, Australia. School of Botany, University of Melbourne.