Plant Sciences module (BS32008)

Semester 2

In this module, we study the fascinating world of plants - incredibly successful organisms which dominate the terrestrial biosphere. We discuss how plants use special developmental strategies and exquisite environmental sensitivity to survive and thrive on land. We also learn how plants interact with other organisms, either to use them to their benefit (pollinators, soil microbiota) or to neutralise them (pests and pathogens). We also explore how domestication and breeding of plants lead to the crop plants we consume today. We also consider unique aspects of plant genomes and how molecular breeding and other biotechnological advances are improving our food security.