This course unit will cover
anatomy, histology and classification of plants. It deals with the study of
structure and histology of angiosperm roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits and
seeds. It also covers the path of plant development from male and female
gametophytes, endosperm development, embryogenesis, seed germination and the structure
and development of the shoot apex. The role of plant growth regulators and
hormones in plant development is considered, including their discovery,
extraction, and mode of action, location and economic importance. Other topics
will include the experimental control of plant growth movements, floral
initiation and flowering, fruit ripening, development of tubers and bulbs and
dormancy in seeds. Taxonomy/classification; evolution and units of
classification; principles and practices of plant and animal taxonomy
emphasizing the phylogenetic relationship and evolutionary features in
classification; artificial and natural classifications; significance of plant
and animal taxonomy and its relationship with other biological
disciplines. Detailed study of selected,
locally important families of plants and animals with emphasis on evolution and
variation patterns will be covered.
- Enseignant: joseph busiku