In the face of global climate change, a growing human population and the threat of bioterrorism, plant pests and diseases are an increasingly important threat to crop biosecurity and ultimately global food security. This course examines the human, economic and environmental impact of pests and diseases. It explores the biology of major threat organisms including vertebrate and insect pests, weeds and oomycete, fungal and nematode pathogens, with a focus on endemic and exotic threats to Australian agriculture. Basic concepts in plant pathology will be covered and laboratory experience in various plant pathology techniques including molecular diagnostics will be provided. The social, economic and environmental impact and effectiveness of regulatory, chemical, biological and biotechnological measures used to control pests and diseases will also be examined. Australian regulatory frameworks designed to exclude exotic pests and diseases and to manage biotechnological solutions to endemic pests and diseases will be a particular focus.

Undergraduate LOs:

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. research biosecurity information and online biosecurity resources;
2. discuss and present biosecurity information verbally, visually and in writing;
3. perform basic laboratory skills in pathology and pathogen diagnostic techniques;
4. understand the regulatory frameworks related to biosecurity and ability to navigate and use these frameworks.

1. Written exam 50%
2. Case-study seminars 20%
3. Tutorial quizzes 10%
4. Laboratory journal 10%
5. Seminar journal 10%

24 lectures and up to 30 hours of practical classes, tutorials and seminars

BIOL2161, CHEM1201

Second year undergraduate cell and molecular biology and first year chemistry