606-023 Agricultural Botany

Availability

Credit Points

HECS Band

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 three practical reports (physiology); practical test, practical book and plant collection (taxonomy).

Prescribed Texts

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