Study unit

Upon successful completion of this course the students understand importance of symbiosis in forest ecosystems and connections between symbiotic fungi, epidemiology and pathogens life cycles, their ecology and have deep knowledge of host -pathogen interactions. Students have also deep understanding on molecular pathology. In addition, the students have knowledge on the possibilities of fungal biotechnology in research and forestry applications.

Symbiosis and symbiotic interactions in forest trees. Biology, taxonomy and epidemiology of forest pathogens.  Invasion species and risk assessment. Detailed understanding of life cycles of pathogens. Insects as vector of fungal diseases. Fungal-host tree interactions at molecular level. Pathogen attack on plant and plant defense. Biotechnical applications at mycological research. Environmental effects on plant diseases. Species Identification Examination 3.

Lectures (26 h), laboratory practicals (35 h), studying species independently, species identification examination 3, literature, laboratory work report and examination.

It is recommended that international non-degree exchange students take only lectures, literature and species identification exams (4 credits).

Agrios, George N. (2005) Plant pathology , 5. edition. Chapters 1-8 and 11.

Carlile, M. J (2001) Fungi , 2. edition. Chapters 2, 5 ja 7.

0-5

Senior Researcher in Forest Pathology; Professor of Forest protection; assistants (laboratory practicals)

3511010 Forest damage and –diseases (or equivalent basic level course) 

3512013 Dynamics and control of forest pests and pathogens (or equivalent intermediate level course)

Spring 2021 (every other year).

Joensuu

Lectures will be either in Finnish or English depending on the participating students.

The maximum number of students accepted for group work, laboratory practicals and excursion is 10. The UEF master program students have priority in access.

Non-degree students and students of UEF master programs should notice that previous basic and intermediate level studies in Forest Protection or Forest pathology are required (approximately 6 cu).