Hobart
Introduction
This unit provides students with advance knowledge of mechanisms of plant function, from the molecular to the whole plant level. The broad range of fundamental processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, plant water relations, stomata physiology, mineral nutrition, plant hormone functions, plant movements, seed germination and dormancy, photomorphogenesis, photoperiodism, circadian rhythms, and environmental stress physiology, are studied in the context of crop performance under adverse environmental conditions. The above theoretical aspects are matched by practical laboratory experiments in which students receive hands-on training on the use of modern phytometrical equipment as well as several analytical techniques used in modern plant physiology. Students will also be expected to develop advanced laboratory record keeping and reporting skills, as well as prepare an analytical essay at an advanced level on one of specific topics related to crop physiology and to incorporate this knowledge in their theory examination. The emphasis in the course is on crop species used in Australian agriculture.
Summary
| Unit name | Crop Physiology |
| Unit code | KLA618 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture |
| Discipline | Agriculture and Food Systems |
| Coordinator | Professor Dugald Close |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Postgraduate |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 2 | 4/7/2027 | 26/7/2027 | 29/8/2027 | 23/10/2027 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Explain and discuss the fundamental mechanisms conferring plant function at the cellular and the whole-plant level
- Examine and consider physiological responses of crops to adverse environmental conditions
- Synthesise and analyse how plant physiology informs crop management approaches used to minimise the constraints imposed by climate
- Execute and interpret experiments that demonstrate key principles of crop physiology
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Assessment | Effects of salinity on stomatal anatomy and function (15%)|Effects of salinity on plant growth and physiological characteristics (20%)|Research Assignment (30%)|Exam (35%) |
|---|---|
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.