PLPPM 3010 - Biology and Management of Plant Diseases

(OPHLS-AG)

Fall. 4 credits. Letter grades only.

Prerequisite: one year of biology. Lab portion of the course starts the second week of classes.

W. E. Fry.

Introduction to the biology of the pathogens that cause plant diseases, and the diagnosis and management of plant diseases. Topics include the biology of bacteria, fungi, oomycetes, viruses, and nematodes; disease cycles; plant disease epidemiology; and the principles and practices of plant disease management. Intended for students who want a practical knowledge of plant diseases and their control, as well as for students preparing for advanced courses in plant pathology and plant-microbe biology.

Outcome 1: Students will be able to explain, using appropriate scientific terminology, what the different major groups of plant pathogens are.

Outcome 2: Students will be able to explain how and why a plant disease epidemic develops as it does.

Outcome 3: Students will be able to construct a disease management plan and explain and defend it to growers.

Outcome 4: Students will be able to explain via words and illustrations how pathogens cause disease.