BI1381, Mycological knowledge - advanced basic course in mycology, 7.5 Hp
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Syllabus

Finalized by: Programnämnden för utbildning inom skog (PN - S), 2021-05-26
Valid from : Autumn semester 2021 (2021-08-30)

Level

First cycle (G1F)

Main field of study

Biology

Grading Scale

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Course language

Swedish

Entry Requirements

Objectives

The course aims to provide an expanded knowledge of fungal biology and ecology. The course deals with modern systematics, phylogeny and identification techniques, as well as species knowledge. Central to the course are fungal adaptations and dynamics in ecosystems.

Upon completion of the course the student should be able to

• describe the species diversity of fungi and their function from an ecosystem perspective
• identify fungi using determination keys, be familiar with microscopy and DNA techniques for identification of fungi
• describe and discuss general principles for fungal life cycles
• explain fungi’s occurrences in different environments, adaptations and dynamics using theory and an understanding of the importance of different, biotic or abiotic, factors
• describe how fungi’s occurrences are affected by agriculture and forestry, including pathogenic fungi and fungi subjected to conservation efforts
• account for various fungal metabolites and discuss why they are produced and their mechanism of action.

Content

The provide the student with broadened knowledge of the fungal kingdom, covering biology and ecology of fungi. The course provides expanded knowledge of systematics, phylogeny, modern identification techniques and the most important edible-, poison-, and confusion fungi. Fungal toxicology, microscopy techniques and current mycological research are covered during the course.

The course is given as a distance course. The teaching is conducted in the form of online lectures, excursions, project work. Exams, project work and seminars are mandatory.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Passed written exam, approved oral and written presentations of seminars and individual work as well as participation in compulsory subjects.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Forest Mycology and Plant Pathology

Supplementary information

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
meetings for excursions and exercises	2.5	0102
Independent work	2.5	0103
Written examination	2.5	0104

The Course Replaces

BI1298

Other Information

The course is given as a distance course, but it includes about one week’s excursion and exercises at and near the Ultuna campus, which may involve some travel expenses for the student.

The prerequisite for at least 5 credits of mycology can be fulfilled through a mushroom consultant degree, or through e.g. the basic introductory courses in mycological knowledge at SLU or Kristianstad University or previous university courses in mycology at Umeå and Gothenburg University, or through the course cryptogams and nature conservation 15 credits at SLU.

SLU is environmentally certified according to ISO 14001. A large part of our courses cover knowledge and skills that contribute positively to the environment. To further strengthen this, we have specific environmental goals for the education. Students are welcome to suggest actions regarding the course’s content and implementation that lead to improvements for the environment. For more information, see webpage www.slu.se.