BIOL 454 - Biology of Fungi

Units: 4
Major lineages of Kingdom Fungi, including their classification, evolution, life cycles, ecology, morphology and development, with focus on the medical, economic and cultural applications and significance of this diverse group of organisms. Lecture Units: 3; Lab Units: 1.

Prerequisites: BIOL 140B with grade C- or better.
Equivalent Quarter Course: BIOL 4425.
Possible Instructional Methods: Entirely On-ground.
Grading: A-F grading only.
Course Typically Offered: Variable Intermittently

Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Identify the major lineages and groups of Kingdom Fungi and the characteristics that distinguish them;
Explain the systematics and evolution of Fungi, including historical and current taxonomic schemes;
Describe the structure and function of micro- and macromorphological structures formed by Fungi, and understand their development and taxonomic significance;
Describe the life-cycles of the major fungal lineages, and explain how these relate to their ecological roles;
Explain the various ecological interactions and life history strategies of Fungi;
Describe and explain the medical, cultural and economic importance of Fungi as food sources, agricultural and human pests, pathogens and allies.