bio880 - Skills in Plant Systematics (Complete module description)

In this module, we provide the skills necessary to describe and distinguish species for floras and monographs/first publication of species. For that, an overview over the plant kingdom is provided. Further, various non-molecular methods of systematics are practiced, such as morphometry, SEM, identification key generation, nomenclature, species delimitation methods, and interpretation of phylogenetic analyses.

+ deepened biological expertise
++ deepened knowledge of biological working methods
++ data analysis skills + critical and analytical thinking
++ independent searching and knowledge of scientific literature
+ ability to perform independent biological research
++ data presentation and discussion (E) (written and spoken)
+ teamwork
+ statistics & scientific programming

In the seminar we provide an overview over the larger groups of plants and characters for their grouping. We analyse methods for phylogeny generation, angiosperm classification and description of new taxa. In the exercises morphological characters are investigated in various ways and internet resources for further morphological characters presented. Species delimitation methods for molecular and morphological characters are used. Identification keys are generated and nomenclatural rules discussed.

2 examinations: 1 presentation (50%); 1 report (50%)