606-201 Plants and the Environment

Previously known as 606-201 Plant Structure and Function.

Biology 650-141.

This subject examines the interaction between plants and the changing physical environment. More specifically, it explores how the environment affects plant function and structural development, and how plants themselves can alter the environment. Emphasis is given to environmental issues of importance in Australia. Topics will be selected from the following:

• Water - uptake, loss and stress responses;

• Environmental pollution - responses and remediation using plants;

• Salinity - tolerance and stress responses; management with plants;

• Soil acidity - aluminium toxicity; affects on plants;

• Carbon - photosynthesis, respiration, productivity;

• Nutrients - uptake mechanisms and metabolic requirements;

• Air - gas exchange in plants; artificial environments; and

• Natural designs - the development and diversity of plant structure.

At the completion of the subject students should have:

• A knowledge of plant structure and function in relation to the physical environment;

• A knowledge of environmental issues that affect plant function in Australia; and

• Skills in laboratory-based experimental plant science.

Up to 3000 words of practical assignments due during the semester (35%); a 3-hour written examination in the examination period (65%).