Conducted in
term:
2025/26Z
ISCED code: 0511
ECTS credits:
3
Language:
English
Organized by:
Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences
(for:
Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń)
(in Polish) Basics of Plant Ecophysiology 2600-OG-EN-BPE
This course has not yet been described...
Total student workload
(in Polish) Contact hours:
Lecture: 10 hours
Laboratory: 30 hours
Consultations: 5 hours
Self-study:
Preparing for lectures and labs: 10 hours
Reviewing materials and preparing reports: 20 hours
Total: ~75 hours (equivalent to 3 ECTS)
Learning outcomes - knowledge
(in Polish) W1: Understand the basic principles of plant ecophysiology, focusing on plant-environment interactions and physiological adaptations.
W2: Describe the mechanisms of photosynthesis, including light absorption, electron transport, and carbon fixation pathways (C3, C4, and CAM).
W3: Explain plant water relations, including water uptake, transport, transpiration, and strategies for drought tolerance.
W4: Understand the processes of nutrient acquisition, transport, and assimilation in plants, and their ecological significance.
W5: Identify the physiological and biochemical mechanisms of plant responses to abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, temperature extremes, and light intensity.
W6: Recognize the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant systems, including key enzymes like catalase, superoxide dismutase, and ascorbate peroxidase, in plant stress responses.
W7: Analyze the impacts of environmental factors on plant physiological processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, and growth.
W8: Explain the role of chlorophyll fluorescence and gas exchange measurements as tools for assessing plant physiological performance under varying conditions.
W9: Discuss how global climate change influences plant ecophysiology and its implications for agriculture and ecosystem dynamics.
W10: Demonstrate knowledge of experimental methods and tools used in plant ecophysiology research, including spectrophotometry, gas exchange analysis, and biochemical assays.
Learning outcomes - skills
(in Polish) U1: Perform laboratory experiments to measure photosynthesis, transpiration, and other key physiological processes in plants.
U2: Conduct enzyme activity assays, including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX), to evaluate plant stress responses.
U3: Use instruments such as spectrophotometers, chlorophyll meters, and gas exchange systems to collect and analyze physiological data.
U4: Apply appropriate statistical methods to analyze experimental data and interpret results effectively.
U5: Prepare and write detailed laboratory reports, including data visualization and interpretation.
U6: Design experiments to investigate plant physiological responses to abiotic stress factors such as drought, salinity, and temperature.
U7: Evaluate plant performance under varying environmental conditions using advanced ecophysiological techniques, such as chlorophyll fluorescence analysis.
U8: Synthesize information from experimental results to draw conclusions about plant-environment interactions and adaptation strategies.
U9: Critically assess research findings in the field of plant ecophysiology and propose practical applications for sustainable agriculture and ecosystem management.
U10: Work collaboratively in a laboratory setting, demonstrating effective teamwork and problem-solving skills during experiments and data analysis.
Learning outcomes - social competencies
(in Polish) K1: Demonstrate responsibility and attention to detail when conducting laboratory experiments and handling scientific instruments.
K2: Show a proactive approach to solving problems related to plant stress physiology and ecosystem management.
K3: Exhibit teamwork and collaboration skills during group laboratory work and discussions, valuing diverse perspectives and contributions.
K4: Develop a critical and ethical perspective on the application of plant ecophysiology knowledge in agriculture, forestry, and environmental conservation.
K5: Recognize the importance of sustainable practices and the role of plants in maintaining ecosystem stability and addressing global challenges such as climate change.
K6: Communicate effectively with peers and instructors, presenting findings and ideas clearly in both written and oral formats.
K7: Appreciate the significance of continuous learning and staying updated with advancements in plant science and ecophysiology.
K8: Show a commitment to scientific integrity and reliability in reporting experimental data and results.
K9: Understand the societal and global relevance of plant ecophysiology in ensuring food security and biodiversity conservation.
K10: Display a professional attitude towards ecological research and a willingness to apply knowledge for the benefit of society and the environment.
Teaching methods
(in Polish) Lectures: Interactive presentations with discussions.
Laboratory: Hands-on experiments, data collection, and analysis.
Observation/demonstration teaching methods
- display
Expository teaching methods
- problem-based lecture
- discussion
- description
- discussion
- description
Exploratory teaching methods
- experimental
- case study
- field measurement
- observation
- presentation of a paper
- practical
- laboratory
- case study
- field measurement
- observation
- presentation of a paper
- practical
- laboratory
Type of course
elective course
Prerequisites
(in Polish) Basic knowledge of plant biology and physiology is recommended.
Course coordinators
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: