University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 2 | Credits: 5

Land plants evolved ~500 million years ago and have since diversified to inhabit every available niche. This module explores key adaptations and innovations which have allowed plants to adapt to specific environmental stresses including changes in life-cycle, biochemical and anatomical modifications of photosynthesis, water uptake and the evolution of roots and a vascular system, as well as the evolution of seeds and flowers. Plant diversity will be discussed providing an introduction to each of the major groups of land plants and their identifying features; this will be supported by examination of live and prepared materials.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Describe and understand the breadth of land plant diversity, and how it originated
  2. Explain the functional biology of plant taxa, and their ecological significance
  3. Compare the life-cycles and forms of reproduction found in extant land plants and explain their strengths and limitations;
  4. Identify the distinguishing characteristics of major groups of bryophytes, ferns, gymnosperms and flowering plants
  5. Discuss the major innovations and adaptations that have enabled plants to diversify and inhabit every available niche
  6. Discuss Ireland's flora and biogeography
Assessments
  • Written Assessment (70%)
  • Continuous Assessment (30%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "Plant Systematics" by Michael Simpson
  2. "Raven Biology of Plants" by Ray F. Evert, Susan E. Eichhorn
    ISBN: 9781429219617.
    Publisher: W. H. Freeman
  3. "Plant Physiology" by Taiz and Zeiger
  4. "Plants" by Martin Ingrouille, Bill Eddie
    ISBN: 9780521794336.
    Publisher: Cambridge, UK ; Cambridge University Press, 2006.
The above information outlines module BPS203: "Plant Diversity, Physiology & Adaptation" and is valid from 2016 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.