Botany (BOT)

In this course, students are introduced to principles of botany and horticulture and the biology of plant life. The course also integrates perspectives from other disciplines to emphasize the role of plants in development of civilization and influence of plants on world history, politics, economics and culture. Includes a survey of various useful and harmful plants and plant products, as well as the biological and ecological consequences of agriculture.

This course examines the origins and diversification of plants and algae and their fundamental significance to life on earth. The roles of photosynthesis, symbiosis, and adaptation will be central themes.

Students get an introductory knowledge of the major plant species indigenous to SW Florida, learn how to key unknown plants to the species level, and how to recognize and understand major natural communities of SW Florida.

An introduction to the diversity of vascular plants, with an emphasis on flowering plants. Lectures cover both organismal and phylogenetic/evolutionary perspectives on plant systematics, including the use of genetic and genomic data for understanding plant evolution. The laboratory presents a survey of vascular plant diversity, covering structural characteristics of major plant families and the identification of vascular plants of Florida to the species level.

An overview of the processes that take place in plant cells and organs. Topics include the mechanisms by which plants obtain their nutrients and synthesize required molecules and structures, and the role played by internal and environmental factors in plant growth and development.

Explores the interactions of plants with their biotic and abiotic environment at scales ranging from the organism to the ecosystem. Investigates how plants interact with their environment, including the mechanisms used by plants to cope with the environmental stresses.