Plant Health and Improvement (BIOL30006)

Formerly AGRI30032

This subject outlines the methods used to identify pathogens causing plant diseases, the consequences of diseases for plant productivity; and techniques used in breeding for plant disease resistance. The links between these two areas are explored as plant breeders and pathologists seek novel genetic material capable of resisting or tolerating plant pathogens.

Topics covered include:

• Taxonomy, identification and biology of the main groups of plant pathogens and abiotic causes of plant diseases
• Host pathogen relationships, and the nature of disease resistance and pathogenesis
• Methods to identify pathogens, and development of tools for diagnosis
• Processes leading to plant disease epidemics and their evaluation
• Principles and methodology of plant breeding for disease resistance
• Evolutionary processes and genetic variability of plant and pathogen populations
• World-wide distribution and conservation of plant genetic resources
• Methods of breeding self– and cross-pollinating plants
• Management and integrated control of plant diseases

Practical work includes:

• Identification and diagnosis of common diseases
• Development of skills in research techniques and methodology in plant pathology