This course takes an evolutionary approach to the systematics and diversity of plants. It starts with a practical approach to collecting, identifying and classifying plants, culminating in a three-day trip to develop skills in the field. Multi-media identification tools will be introduced and used throughout the semester. The structure and variation of plants will be explored through the many levels of diversity: geographic patterns among populations, the critical step of speciation among species within genera, and within and among families. Finally, the evolution of the major groups of plants and fungi will be studied, from the invasion of land to the explosive radiation of angiosperms, as well as the causes of these major events.

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but will be assessed separately

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

1. Collect, preserve and identify herbarium specimens, and to examine, describe and illustrate plants
2. Apply practical plant taxonomic skills in the laboratory, glasshouse and field
3. Find and interpret taxonomic literature and access and use the plant collections in a herbarium
4. Understand plant structure relevant to classification, its diversity and evolution
5. Integrate and apply the principles of plant classification into making a basic taxonomic treatment of a group of plants
6. Integrate concepts of plant evolution and speciation into an understanding of how organisms are classified in a phylogenetic framework

Assessment will be based on:

• Four practical reports (15%; LO 1, 2, 4)
• Theory exam (40%; LO 3, 4, 5)
• Plant collection and descriptions (40%; LO 1, 2, 3, 5)
• Literature research project and essay (15%; LO 6)

Two lectures per week, nine practicals of three hours each and a field trip to Jervis Bay field station over one weekend.Non-contact: plant collection approx 30 hrs; practical reports 2 hrs each; essay 10-20 hrs.

Requires Bachelor of Science or equivalent with a major in the field of biological science with relevant experience or academic achievement. First year Biology, first year Genetics and first year Statistics are recommended. First year Chemistry is desirable.