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ESPM 150/290 Spring 2010
Biology, Ecology, and Genetics of Forest Diseases
This course will at first focus on basic concepts regarding the biology and the epidemiology of microbes causing forest
diseases. The beneficial and detrimental effects of native pathogens on forest ecosystems will be discussed and contrasted
with the effects of introduced pathogens. In the second part of the course, we will look at how modern molecular biology
tools have been deployed to identify and track down forest killers, in a way not too dissimilar from what is currently
being done when investigating human crimes. Genetic information is constantly being produced and analyzed to gain insights
on the biology and the mechanisms of spread and survival of forest pathogens and other fungi. We will look at the importance
of cryptic speciation, of sex and clonal reproduction, and at the ability of pathogens to travel long and short distances to
infest new areas. Finally, we will look at the increasing hybridization between pathogenic species often mediated by human
activities and at its potential impacts on forest ecosystems. How are new pathogens brought into different world regions
will be discussed by discussing examples of introductions caused by the nursery and ornamental industries, research activities,
and even military activities and war! Come and learn everything you always wanted to know about sex (in pathogens) but you
never dared to ask, see in first person the real "Attack of the clones" on our forests. Class will require some basic knowledge
of genetics and molecular biology, and will include one field trip and one identification laboratory session.
ESPM 150 - CCN 29488
ESPM 290 - CCN 30211
Class meets for two hours once a week Thursday 3-5pm, 410 Wellman Hall.
Spring 2010 Class Flyer
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