Life Sciences

Plant Physiology and Ecology

Module code: C1027
Level 5
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Practical
Assessment modes: Coursework, Computer based exam

Plants provide us with food, a breathable atmosphere, raw materials and medicines whilst removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The first half of this module will look at the origins and evolution of plants and the taxonomy of the major plant groups.

The module will look at plant genetic diversity at the molecular level and look at genetic fingerprinting methods for the assesment of biodiversity in both wild and crop plants. We will then explore how plants sense their environment, take up nutrients and photosynthesise and store metabolites. The final section looks at the methods of producing genetically modified (GM) crop plants for food and biotechnology, and their benefits and potential threats to the environment and human health.

Module learning outcomes

• Have a good understanding of the origins and diversity of plants
• Understand how plants function
• Understand the major methods to produce genetically modified plants.