202-103 Biology for Land and Food Resources

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Subject Description

The subject introduces students to biological concepts and skills which will form the foundation of other 'biology-based subjects'. The subject covers areas including:

• cell biology and metabolism: molecules of life - water, organic compounds, ions, polymers (proteins, nucleic acids, polysaccharides), supramolecular structures; organelles, membranes and walls; unicellular and multicellular organisms, cell division, mitosis; cell differentiation and specialisation; diversity and unity of cell structure, prokaryotes and eukaryotes; tissues and organs; major metabolic pathways, primary and secondary metabolism; enzymes; photosynthesis and photorespiration, chloroplasts, respiration, glycolysis, fermentation;

• inheritance: protein synthesis and gene expression; brief description of DNA, RNA, the double helix, recombination and mutation; Mendalian genetics;

• plant structure and function: roots, stems, leaves, meristems, flowers and seeds; plant cells and tissues, anatomical diversity; transpiration and translocation; nutrient uptake; primary and secondary growth;

• animal structure and function: tissues, organs and organ systems; comparative anatomy; homeostasis; nutrient uptake, circulation, gas and fluid exchange; structure of selected invertebrate groups, especially insects; mammalian structures; differences between animal and plant anatomy;

• reproduction and nutrition: heterotrophy and autotrophy; nutrients and nutrient cycling; productivity; gametogenesis - process and structures in plants and animals; fertilization, seed development, germination, emergence; gestation, embryo development, parturition, hatching; life cycles; animal growth (briefly);

• introduction to biodiversity and evolution: populations, communities and ecosystems; adaptation; phylogeny and evolution (brief introduction only);

• practicals: will emphasize the handling and identification of biological material and the use of microscopes and other instruments.

Assessment

Mid-semester examination (10%), final examination (70%), practicals (20%). Pass in practical component required.

Recommended Texts

• R. B. Knox, P Y Ladiges B. K. Evans and R. Saint, Biology. McGraw Hill, 1994.