Angiosperm Evolution and Biodiversity (P01315)

? Credit Points : 10 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : BIO-P-AngEvoL

The purpose of these lectures is to infuse the students with a broad understanding of the origin, evolution and special features of the angiosperms. The lectures are provided in the context of the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group (APG II, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society 141: 399-436, 2003) and give a broad outline of the major clades and the evolution of key characters. The major lineages of Angiosperms will be presented with emphasis on major events of evolution and diversification. Further to this, the evolution of the angiosperms will be approached from a floral structural perspective. Morphological characters linked to the flower will be analysed, and these will be linked with the evolutionary developmental genetics underlying floral development. The course also includes the study of specific characters of importance, such as palynology. Other elements affecting floral evolution, such as pollination mechanisms will be presented.

? Keywords : Angiosperms, Angiosperm Biodiversity, monocotyledon, dicotyledon, adaptive radiation, Angiosperm Evolution, Reproductive systems, Flowering plants, Floral anatomy, Floral ontogeny, Angiosperm phylogeny

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : BSc or equivalent in Biology or another approved subject Permission of the Course Organiser

? Co-requisites : Angiosperm Biodiversity Practicals

? Costs : none

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Postgraduate, (School of Biological Sciences, Schedule K)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : Blocks 1-3

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) 50 minutes per week for 10 weeks

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Friday	09:00	12:00	External

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

1. Knowledge of flower structures of major angiosperm taxa.
2. Understanding of flowering plant diversity and evolution.
3. Knowledge of flowering plant breeding systems and their evolution.
4. Knowledge of angiosperm developmental genetics and phylogeny.